The Feeling | |
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 The Feeling performing in 2014. From left to right: Jessica Lynne, Riley Thompson, Jack Winters, and Brian MacBrianed. | |
| Background information | |
| Origin | Los Angeles, California |
| Genres | |
| Years active | 2011–2018, 2023 |
| Labels | |
| Spinoff of |
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| Past members |
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The Feeling is an American atmospheric-shoegaze supergroup from Los Angeles, California, formed in 2011 by Jack Winters and Riley Thompson as a passion project, later being joined by Brian MacBrianed and Jessica Lynne to form what would be recognized as the main lineup. Prior to their unofficial hiatus in 2018, the band released three studio albums, two EPs, and one live album. In 2023, the band announced they’d release one final album as a celebration of the band’s legacy.
History
edit2011: Formation and Call to Action
editThe Feeling was founded in 2011 as a passion project by Jack Winters and Riley Thompson, both seeking to explore new musical horizons separate from their previous acts, Before You Go and Astral Troy, respectively. The two met back in college, as they were both involved heavily in the local music scene. Drawing inspiration from their diverse backgrounds, the duo crafted an initial demo EP titled Call to Action, which showcased their experimental sound and served as a means to attract additional members to the group. This early effort garnered a devoted following, positioning The Feeling as a promising newcomer to the alternative music scene.
2012: Touch the Sky
editIn 2012, The Feeling unveiled their debut album, Touch the Sky, marking a significant milestone in their musical journey. Expanded by the addition of Brian MacBrianed on bass and Jessica Lynne on vocals and keyboards, the band's core lineup was solidified. Thompson invited MacBrianed to the project, as he was the bassist in her band, Astral Troy. Winters had met Lynne back in 2009, as they were both on the bill for The World Against Suicide charity tour, with Lynne playing with her band The Unforgettables and Winters performing as a solo act, who had lost fellow Before You Go member, Lenny Johnson, who had unfortunately taken his own life a few months prior. Touch the Sky resonated with both critics and listeners alike, drawing praise for its unique fusion of space rock, shoegaze, and progressive elements. Singles such as "Dreamwalker," "Bright Eyes," and "Champagne" soared to the upper ends of the charts, securing the band's position as a rising force in the alternative music landscape.
2013 - 2015: Among the Stars and The Things We Do
editThe years 2013 to 2015 marked a period of exploration for The Feeling. Their sophomore album, Among the Stars, failed to impress most critics and audiences like their first album did, with critics citing the use of familiar themes and recycled instrumentals. During this time, The Feeling began recording an EP consisting of old concepts written during the Touch the Sky sessions. While working on the EP, producer Chris Walker invited Zachary Anderson of Sparks to the roster, as they’ve worked together in the past. After months in the studio, The Feeling released The Things We Do, an EP that evoked mixed reactions from fans. While some embraced the experimentation, others grappled with the band's departure from the established sound of their first album.
2017 - 2018: Ghosts of the Desert, Everything We Are, and Hiatus
editAfter taking some time to tour, The Feeling went back into the studio, this time with the help of Alex Williams, who would end up being the last person to join the band. The Feeling's third studio album, Ghosts of the Desert, arrived in 2017, sparking heated debates among fans and critics alike. While some lauded the band's daring exploration of new sonic territories, others lamented the perceived departure from their earlier style. Although, most agreed that it was definitely a step up from the band’s sophomore slump, Among the Stars. To capitalize on the situation, the band toured and released their only live album, Everything We Are, which featured tracks from all across their discography. The live album sold well, with critics praising the production quality of the live performances. Subsequently, The Feeling entered an unofficial hiatus, leaving fans to wonder about the band's future.
2021 - 2023: Reunion, Galaxies for Hollywood, and Farewell
editThroughout 2021 and 2022, members of The Feeling began to post promotional material regarding the band, but didn’t give away many details. Most fans suspected a 10-year anniversary celebration of the band’s debut album. In a surprising turn of events, The Feeling announced tour dates and a brand new album, Galaxies for Hollywood. However, the band made it clear this would be their final album as a band. Reinvigorated by their time away, the full lineup consisting of Jack Winters, Riley Thompson, Brian MacBrianed, Jessica Lynne, Zachary Anderson, and Alex Williams, reunited to craft one final piece of music before they went their separate ways. Winters described the album as a “retrospect and celebration of the band, including the good and the bad”. According to the band, this album encapsulated the band's evolution and growth over the years. With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, the album serves as a heartfelt celebration of The Feeling's legacy. The first single,”Scars”, is set to release August 16th, 2023.
Band Members
edit- Jack Winters – Vocals, Lead Guitar (2011–Present), Rhythm Guitar (2011–2014)
- Riley Thompson – Drums, Percussion (2011–Present), Bass (2011)
- Brian MacBrianed – Vocals (2017–Present), Bass, Backing Vocals, Trumpet, (2011–Present)
- Jessica Lynne – Vocals, Keyboard, Synth, Organ (2011–Present)
- Zachary Anderson – Rhythm Guitar, Harmonica (2014–Present)
- Alex Williams – Violin, Chello, Saxophone (2016–Present)
Timeline
edit
Discography
edit- Touch the Sky (2012)
- Among the Stars (2013)
- Ghosts of the Desert (2017)
- Galaxies for Hollywood (2023)