Local Bands

Live and Unsigned dream ends for Selium

By Stephen Lloyd
June 16, 2010

FIVE teenagers from Yateley have narrowly missed out on the chance to perform at a dream gig at London’s 02 arena.

Selium - made up of Connor Jones (vocals), Jack Flower (lead guitar), Jonny Beavis (rhythm guitar and backing vocals), Joe Ashford-Beaumont (bass) and Harry Carman (drums) - had hoped their large army of fans could secure them the biggest show of their lives as part of the Live and Unsigned competition.

They missed out on the national final after performing in a regional round in Portsmouth, but had one more chance to win the last slot through an online wildcard vote.

It was not to be though as that prized place was confirmed for another band on Wednesday.

Selium had put on a triumphant performance at the Princes Hall in Aldershot in April, then making it through to the southern England area final at the Portsmouth Guildhall.

Their performance included a version of Feeder's Buck Rogers as well as their own fan favourite, Bournemouth.

Harry's father Richard said: "As ever, the enthusiasm and energy was magnificent.

"Connor flirted with disaster, running along the edge of the stage engaging the whole crowd; Jab, Jonny and Jack threw themselves into another superb guitar performance and Harry battered another unruly drum kit into submission in his bare feet.

"While other acts played sensitive and moving love songs, Selium stuck to the approach that has brought them success so far - always send the audience home with a smile on their faces."

Selium were a pre-teenbeat band when they formed back in 2007, all the members aged just 12.

After a brief period of performing instrumental numbers at school concerts, they recruited their charismatic frontman Connor and launched into their current incarnation as indie-styled, Converse-wearing rockers.

| Submit Comments