Staff Editor on July 30th, 2021

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The positive vibes of playing a live show at the Echo had L.A. quartet FEELS feeling all the feels on Thursday night. “I’m going to try and not cry right now,” said singer-guitarist singer Laena Myers-Ionita (fka Laura Geronimo). “I can’t cry and sing at the same time. I’ve tried it, trust me.”

Playing their first show in 16 months, FEELS kicked off the set with “Sour” from their “Post Earth” album. Every member of the band collectively formed a single powerful force that set the tone for the night. Their song “Deconstructed” hit all the right buttons for a primed fan base.

The middle portion of their set was dedicated to their newly released “Subversive Reaction” EP with “Rodeo” hitting it home with the lyrics, “There’s so much life to live. No time to waste.”

The band has a confidence level that shines through in their live shows. All the members of the band know how to put on a show and how to use the full stage to their advantage. As an example, bassist Amy Allen closed out the night by proving that sometimes the best way to play the bass is up high and parallel to the body.

Of note: As the band set up their gear, they wore their masks, sending a silent hint to the crowd that we should all do the same.

Opening the night was Vaguess who shook up the crowd with a rapid-fire set. They were a last-minute addition to the lineup. “We’ve only had two practices. What a professional band,” they said. Two-piece Oog Bogo had the static electricity with the added touch of occasional feedback that gave their set a rocking raw sound.

FEELS’ setlist: Sour, Unicorn, Car, Find a Way, Tollbooth, Deconstructed, Rodeo, Trash Island, Night Walker, Anyways, Post Earth, Jah, Close My Eyes.

Photos and recap by Notes From Vivace