Jeni Wren is powerful vocalist and songwriter whose originals experiment in funk, jazz soul and hip-hop, the love child of Nina Simone and Betty Davis; Adele and Jill Scott. "Jeni's voice is captivating.. when combined with the heart behind her lyrics, they're downright moving."(PDX Pick).

Her debut EP North Star, due September 19th showcases her vocals within a tapestry of sexy jazzy soul, produced by Matthew Flowers(Feist, The Visitors) and featuring strong support from many of Portland's fastest rising artists including Bill Marsh, Tim Snider, Farnell Newton, Noah Bernstein and Ben Darwish.

Backed by a full band including Akila Fields(Shy Girls), Michael Dougherty(MRB), Catherine Mehta(De La Warr), Teddy Presberg(Fu*k Monster) and Tom Goicoechea and Josh Thomas(1939 Ensemble), the live experience is a beautiful sight driven by soaring harmonies, tight grooves and strong lyricism. The CD release show will feature her biggest band yet, with an 11 piece band, including a full horn section and background vocal duo.

This show is the launch of her fall monthly residency at Secret Society, which will feature such notables in the Portland soul scene as Magic Mouth, Satin Chaps and Brownish Black.

Since debuting the songs a year ago after organizing a benefit for Blue Room music, she was a member of Shy Girls, who were voted Best New Band in Willamette Weekly's 2013 poll and has been recording her debut EP. She has also performed regularly as a guest with numerous artists including Nicole Berke, Tom Grant, Just People, Tim Snider, Redwood Son, Wil Koenke, Ruby Pines and Garrett Brennan.

Jeni, as former elementary Montessori teacher, continues to be an advocate for music programs, currently working as a vocal instructor at School of Rock. In addition, half of the sales of her debut single through reverbnation go toward providing instruments in school music programs through Fender Music Foundation.


Phoebe Spier is following