The Feeling @ The Refectory
By Verity HudsonWhilst in the presence of the allegedly toe-tapping show-stopping band The Feeling at Leeds University I did indeed get 'a Feeling'.
It was a confused feeling, a tingly feeling and lets be honest - a sweaty feeling. The sweat I'm afraid was down to the hundreds of loyal Charlatans fans pushing their way for a good spot, impatient of the supporting act. But I was tingling because I realised I was watching a moment in history, The Feeling were professional, talented and belted out a very impressively catchy set, surely they will make the big time, they were already acting like they had.
But then the confused feeling set in, why were a band that in theory could headline their own tour are still teetering over the edge of making the big time? Not only that but why were they supporting a group who has a base of hard core fans who seemed less than interested about hearing anything post 2001.
Well I think I finally realised why. The Feeling manages time and time again to create catchy melodies and lyrics yet the same could be said for the uber boy band McFly. The similarities don't finish there... upon visiting their website The Feeling frontman Dan Gillespie Sells explains: 'We make music for the masses, from plumbers to professors.' Which hits the nail on the head, they are trying too hard to appeal to everyone therefore really they are appealing to no one.
I don't think I want catchy, safe, radio friendly tunes, it does nothing to inspire me and I don't think a band can make it big riding on the back of such an over used formula... anymore. At the University the crowd cheered in the right places and bobbed their heads along to the singles such as Sewn and oh you know that other equally forgettable one but attention was more focused on waiting for the headliners or even more importantly going to the bar.
The Feeling are likeable, have incredible potential and there is no doubt that they are a talented bunch but they don't seem to push the boundaries away from safe catchy pop. Unfortunately after the initial tingle wore out I was only left with a disappointed Feeling.
