Leni Ward is a multi-instrumentalist and producer writing and recording from her purpose-built studio in Derby. Her self-released debut record, "Body", met with a good response from tastemakers and DJs. Regular plays by Steve Lamacq on his BBC Radio 2 show lead to a feature and interview in January 2009. Strong support also came from Tom Robinson who invited Leni to perform at his first "Fresh On The Net" live recording at The Riverside Studios in April 2009. The single was spun on Dermot O'Leary's Saturday prime time show and by various other DJs across the BBC specialist shows and at other independent stations. She was also featured on Dean Jackson's "The Beat", the largest regional new music show outside of Scotland, which lead to a performance on the first ever BBC Introducing stage at T In The Park in July 2009. Following this, Leni went back into the studio to prepare her next release. The enclosed CD, "Opening Doors", is a six track sampler from her upcoming album, "Hope". The first track, "Opening Doors", is the intended first single, followed by "I Want My Heart Back" and "Getaway Car". Rich with vibrant harps and swirling synths, the record, inspired by the breakdown of Leni's seven-year-long relationship in the middle of last year, aims to be a celebration of life moving forward rather than a wake. "After the breakup, I didn't want to waste any more time," says Leni. "I wanted to get out there and focus my energy on the things I wanted to do in life. I didn't see the point of sitting, miserable, listening to down-tempo music and moping. I'd choose dancing over depression. I think the music reflects that." Live, Leni reproduces her intricate, multilayered tracks using a complex combination of gadgets, controlling 3 or 4 instruments simultaneously.
