The Sedonas

June 14, 2024

Columbia, SC

Township Auditorium

Review/Photos by Joseph Hett

The Sedonas Are Remarkable In Columbia

The Sedonas made a stop in Columbia, SC at the Township Auditorium on Friday might. The rock and Americana band out of Knoxville, TN was handpicked to open up shows for a run of dates in the Carolinas by the Steve Miller Band.

The Sedonas, usually a quartet, only featured James Connor Wike (vocals) and Ryan Sise (acoustic guitar) for a stripped down presentation.

The lights dimmed as Wike and Sise walked out onstage. An applause was plentiful to get the evening started. Frontman Wike sported his signature aviator sunglasses and blazer, while Sise wore a polo.

The audience immediately knew that they were in for a treat once Wike’s showcased his powerful vocals for “For Once.”

Sise started strumming the chords to “You Know (You Ought to Know).” Wike jumped in with a high note to showcase his vast vocal range. Wike also provided some whistling to complement the tune.

They slowed it down with “Trace of Rain” from “The Sedonas LP.” Wike kicked it into overdrive to reach the high notes to end the beautiful song.

The highlight of the evening had to be “Too Tired (For Common Sense).” From the bluesy guitar licks to Wike’s harmonica notes – it was awesome. You could tell the capacity crowd really enjoyed this one.

After “Even in My Mind’s Eye” and “A Song for Idling Time,” Wike invited everyone out to The Sedonas’ merchandise table before launching into the final song. Sise started a catchy riff for the show closer “I’m Halfway Old.” Wike ended the song with an extended high note.

It was a treat to finally get the see The Sedonas perform live – albeit as an acoustic duo. Just imagine a full show with bassist Brandon Springfield and drummer Casey Green. Now that would be a magical experience. Hopefully the next time The Sedonas come around, they will be headlining since they have all of the tools at their disposal – polished songs, phenomenal musicianship and amazing stage presence.