
Artist Spotlight: The Feelies
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Spotlight on The Feelies
The Feelies are an American rock band hailing from Haledon, New Jersey, known for their unique blend of post-punk, jangle pop, and alternative rock. Since their formation in 1976, they've been celebrated for their understated, nervous energy and complex, rhythmic interplay, making them a seminal influence in the American indie rock scene.
Formation and Early Years
The Feelies first came together when Glenn Mercer and Bill Million, inspired by the burgeoning New York punk scene, decided to form a band that contrasted the era's prevailing punk rock intensity with a more subdued and intricate approach. Their debut album, "Crazy Rhythms" (1980), was critically acclaimed for its innovative blend of rock and new wave minimalism, marked by staccato guitar riffs and tight percussion.
Musical Style and Innovations
The Feelies' sound is characterized by its subtlety and precision. They employ clean, rapid guitar lines, complex, interlocking rhythms, and an overall sense of controlled energy that rarely explodes into outright frenzy. This distinctive approach set them apart in the rock landscape of the 1980s and influenced a wide range of bands in the indie and alternative genres.
Key Albums and Evolution
After "Crazy Rhythms," The Feelies underwent several lineup changes and took a brief hiatus, re-emerging with "The Good Earth" in 1986, co-produced by R.E.M.'s Peter Buck. This album marked a shift towards a more melodic and less frenetic sound. They continued to release influential records like "Only Life" (1988) and "Time for a Witness" (1991) before another hiatus in the 1990s.
In 2008, The Feelies reunited and have since released "Here Before" (2011) and "In Between" (2017), both of which demonstrate the band's enduring appeal and consistency in quality. These later works continue to feature their trademark jangly guitars and complex rhythms while reflecting a more mature perspective.
Legacy and Influence
The Feelies have often been cited as a "band's band," with members of R.E.M., Sonic Youth, and Yo La Tengo pointing to them as a major influence. Their emphasis on rhythm and texture over volume and distortion presaged many of the developments in alternative music throughout the 1980s and 90s.
Vinyl Collectibles at IrelandVinyl.com and Zhivago Gifts in Galway
For vinyl collectors and indie rock aficionados, The Feelies’ albums are essential listening. Their discography, available at IrelandVinyl.com and at Zhivago Gifts in Galway, offers a deep dive into the evolution of alternative rock. Records like "Crazy Rhythms" and "The Good Earth" are particularly prized for their pioneering approach to guitar music and their impact on the indie rock genre.
Conclusion
The Feelies remain a critical yet often underappreciated pillar of American indie music. Their nuanced approach to rock music and their influence on the indie scene make them a fascinating subject for any music fan looking to understand the roots of alternative rock. Whether you’re exploring their early work or their more recent albums, The Feelies offer a rich, textured listening experience that continues to resonate in the modern music landscape.