Credit: Eleri Ward

Eleri Ward is an NYC-based singer-songwriter whose artistry bridges the gap between theatrical storytelling and contemporary music. Originally from Chicago, Ward’s musical journey began with a deep-rooted love for narrative-driven melodies. Her breakthrough came through an unconventional lens, reimagining the works of Stephen Sondheim with a delicate, indie-folk touch. This distinctive approach captured the attention of major outlets like The New York Times, Forbes, and American Theatre Magazine, where her interpretations were praised for their originality and emotional depth.

Eleri Ward’s Sondheim covers, marked by their acoustic intimacy and ethereal vocal textures, established her as a unique voice in the modern music landscape. Yet, her artistic evolution didn’t stop there. Moving beyond the boundaries of acoustic reinterpretations, Eleri Ward has ventured into a world of original music that blends electro-pop sensibilities with the warmth of organic instrumentation. Her sound; a celestial mix of lush synths, intimate piano, and intricately layered vocals reflects a broader artistic vision rooted in self-discovery and emotional truth.

What distinguishes Eleri Ward is not just her talent for creating captivating soundscapes but also her practical involvement in her craft. She independently creates her music and visuals, crafting a unified, reflective universe that is both profoundly personal and widely relatable. With every release, Ward keeps expanding the limits of her artistry, encouraging listeners to engage with music as a journey that is both sonic and emotional.

On February 21st, 2025, Eleri Ward releases her second original single, Float, an astonishing continuation of her initial song, There You Go. In this otherworldly and contemplative work, Ward delves into the concept of surrender, providing listeners with a meditative insight into trust, stillness, and self-discovery. Float serves as a sonic awakening, encouraging one to let go of the urge for perpetual activity and to appreciate the serene strength of just existing. Through a gentle blend of lingering synths, piano, and ethereal vocal harmonies, the piece reflects the lightness implied by its name.

Eleri Ward’s signature vocal textures; soft yet profound, guide the listener through a soundscape that feels both celestial and grounded. This self-produced single is an immersive experience that reflects Ward’s commitment to authenticity and artistic independence. Through Float, she invites us to pause, breathe, and trust the unknown reminding us that sometimes, stillness is the boldest move of all.

Eleri Ward’s Float is a captivating auditory journey that seamlessly transports listeners into a surreal daydream. From the initial note, the song radiates an ethereal beauty, flowing with a fluidity that seems nearly unearthly. Its fundamental power lies in simplicity, but it possesses an alluring richness that captivates. Like a gentle strand of tune gliding through the air, Float personifies its name with each exhalation of its creation. The ambiance it generates is captivating, abundant with a celestial essence that appears simultaneously personal and vast. Ward’s talent for creating an otherworldly soundscape highlights her artistry, as she effortlessly merges minimalism with deep emotional resonance.

The song begins with a soft flow of piano notes, establishing the basis for its subtle grace. Every note descends like a raindrop into a calm lake, spreading outward with gentle elegance. The arrival of Eleri Ward’s singing is simply enchanting; her voice, delicate as a whisper, exudes a nearly celestial calm. Her delivery possesses a fragility that is profoundly moving, pulling the listener into a close connection. The equilibrium between the piano’s gentle resonance and her voice’s subtle power is divine, a flawless harmony that seems as though it was made in the skies. This meticulous interaction evokes a feeling of weightlessness, as if the song transcends time, suspended in its own unique space.

As the melody progresses, nuanced yet enthralling elements appear, enhancing the allure of its mesmerizing quality. The deliberate tempo gives the music space to breathe, elevating its transcendent nature. Soft stringed tones interlace within the melody, enhancing the depth of the composition. These aspects do not dominate but instead enhance the song’s natural calmness, further inviting the listener into its enchantment. Float possesses an undeniable mesmerizing appeal that renders it impossible to resist. Its movement is so effortless and fluid, resembling a glide through a cosmic dream, hovering in an ambiance of complete tranquility.

The true magic occurs as the song unfolds, increasing in both depth and feeling. The addition of several vocal layers, particularly the otherworldly falsetto harmonies, transforms the piece into something nearly primal. It holds the essence of the eternal, as though it conveys the whispers of souls from a different dimension. These harmonies introduce a hauntingly lovely aspect to the song, giving it an orchestral richness in its depth. Ward’s technique with vocal layering is exceptional, producing a choral sound that is both expansive and profoundly intimate. Each note is positioned purposefully, guaranteeing that the song maintains its subtle equilibrium while further enhancing its resonance.

As Float approaches its end, a quiet yet notable change takes place. Gently quickened rhythms appear, infusing fresh vitality into the piece. It’s a soft beat, not overwhelming, yet sufficient to lend the tune a refreshed energy. This enhancement gives the music a sense of evolution, aiming for something just out of reach on the horizon. However, despite this alteration, Float still maintains its fundamental nature. The unwavering softness maintains its quality, and this juxtaposition only amplifies its enchantment. It showcases Ward’s talent for creating a song that is both lively and calming, encouraging listeners to move with its beat while remaining enveloped in its tranquility.

In the end, Float truly embodies its name in the most stunning fashion. It is a song that lifts you, light and unburdened, through a realm of harmony and feelings. Each element, from the heavenly piano to Ward’s divine voice, adds to an experience that feels like floating through a storybook. It’s a work that not only calls for attention but also requires to be sensed, experienced, and embraced. In a noisy world, Float offers a moment of genuine musical magic, highlighting the beauty that exists within simplicity. Eleri Ward has created something truly enchanting, a melody that remains long after the last note vanishes into the universe.

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