ABOUT US

We are a five piece psychedelic folk funk band, hailing from Somerset and Wiltshire. Playing together since 2018, but more recently reformed in 2022 after a break during the pandemic, we've created an eclectic sound that is uniquely our own. With influences such as Paul Simon, Jefferson Airplane, The Beatles, Florence + The Machine and David Gray our music is definitely something to write home about.

Meet The Band

Ellen Colyer

Lead Vocals

Ellen has been singing for as long as she can remember. Growing up, she sang in school choirs and church before releasing a solo EP in her mid teens. Now the front woman of Somerset Velvet, she draws inspiration from the live performances of Fleetwood Mac and Florence Welch and the vocals of Eva Cassidy and Alicia Keys.

Sam Pledger

Rhythm Guitar, Vocals

The secret weapon, Sam has been playing guitar since his teenage years and developing an expansive appreciation for music. His early guitar heroes included John Frusciante and Jimi Hendrix. Now, Sam draws inspiration from many different artists, lending a unique flavour to the band's songwriting.

Jasper Sheppard

Lead Guitar, Vocals

Jasper is an avatar of the flowered past. He's been playing guitar since his early teens and grew up with a great deal of rock music in his life. This shines through today in the sun soaked guitar tone and immersive atmospherics he brings to the band. His biggest inspirations are Led Zepplin, Pink Floyd and Paoulo Nutini.

Joseph Adams

Bass, Vocals

The band leader, Joseph, has been playing bass since 16. His early inspirations included Snoop Dogg and Motown records. More recently evolving his musicianship to include singing and songwriting, he draws a lot from nature and life, alongside Cat Stevens, The Beatles and Fairport Convention.

Jamie Fry (The Wiltshire Whacker)

Drums

Jamie is a true force of nature and the beating heart of Somerset Velvet. He's been drumming since his mid teens and takes inspiration from a variety of musicians. He's an endorsing artist with Soultone cymbals and he toured with The Stranglers on their 2021 European tour as their drum tech.