Newbury Sounds - Meet the Bands: Sion Whiley Band

Get to know the bands who will be performing at our next fundraising event, Newbury Sounds!

With our next fundraising event for the Old Library Campaign coming up on Friday 14 March, we have spoken to each of the bands performing on the night to learn more about them and what to expect from their performance at Newbury Sounds.

Check out below for a Q&A with the Newbury-based group Sion Whiley Band, here's what they had to say:

What genre of music do you play?

My music and writing has changed a lot over the years, but I have now really honed in on alternative folk - intricate guitar parts playing off each other, with melodic and emotive vocal lines. 

I am blessed to have the finest musicians working with me on this current project. Alex Lewis, adding complex, skillful and perfectly musical rhythm on the drums. Sean Law, effortlessly traversing the whole fretboard bringing low harmonies and glue to the tracks on the bass. Ronan Hatful, playing the intricate lead guitar parts that interplay beautifully with my acoustic guitar. 

Who is your band’s biggest musical inspiration?

As a singer-songwriter, with a band behind me, my influences are far and wide. From the grunge and rock of the 90s, including Nirvana and Stone Temple Pilots, to the folk and solo artists such as Elliott Smith and Jeff Buckley. Radiohead and Bon Iver have always been a huge influence on me too. 

What’s the song you’re most excited to play at Newbury Sounds?

One of my latest songs, which I deem to be my finest work; Fragile We Are. It perfectly encapsulates my music as a whole in one track.

Do you have any memories connected to the Corn Exchange?

I visited the Corn Exchange as a kid. Watched many pantomimes and shows there. I have also seen several great comedy acts over the years. It will be an honour to play at this great local venue for the first time.