| The band: | Andy Stedman: vocals/acoustic guitar/rhythm guitar, Mic Harrison: drums Chris Earland: lead guitar Andy “Longhair” Scott: piano/keyboards Ben Moxon: bass |
Sequoia have been well-known on the Reading gig circuit for a number of years now. But recently they've taken flight and soared to the heady heights of BBC Radio 2, where presenter Mariella Frostrup has played their track Laura Valentine. She's not the only celebrity blonde to be impressed with Sequoia's cut-glass Americana indie, BBC Radio Berkshire guest presenter Melinda Messenger had them in the studio for a live set - something we might call a perk of the job for both parties. You can hear what the fuss is all about by listening to their new album Ebb & Flow. Stashed full of tales of everyday life, the album tells tales of happiness, disappointment, defiance, risk, and sadness. The opening tune Laura Valentine - where the search is on for that elusive soulmate – sets the scene. Throughout the album we’re taken through hopes and disappointments, as life ebbs and flows, to the closing numbers Close To The Sun and September Sun (reprise) where realisations have been made, even if what you’re searching for hasn’t quite arrived. They seamlessly mix genres such as alt-country and classic British 60’s rock’n’roll and their three-part harmonies are officially gorgeous. Sequoia pride themselves on both the musical and lyrical content of their songs with the unswaying belief that when a song actually means something to the listener, he or she will revisit it again and again. In support of their debut album SEQUOIA will be touring the UK in November and December. Ebb & Flow was released on High Desert Music on 31 October. GIGS Tues 22 November: BRACKNELL, South Hill Park, 01344 484123 (7.45pm) £5.
Tues 29 November: LEICESTER, The Musician, 0116 251 0080 (8pm) £5.
Wed 30 November: ST ALBANS, The Horn, 01727 853143 (8pm) £4. | 
