Felt

Felt was an English indie pop band formed in Birmingham in 1979. Led by Lawrence (born Lawrence Hayward), the band underwent numerous lineup changes throughout its existence. Here are some key facts about Felt:

1. Formation and Early Years: Felt was formed by Lawrence in 1979 after he became disillusioned with the punk rock scene and sought to create music that was more melodic and introspective. The band's early lineup included Lawrence on vocals and guitar, along with a rotating cast of musicians. Felt's sound was characterized by jangly guitars, understated vocals, and poetic lyrics, drawing influence from 1960s pop and psychedelia.

2. Album Releases and Critical Acclaim: Felt released ten studio albums between 1982 and 1989, each showcasing Lawrence's songwriting prowess and the band's distinctive sound. Their debut album, "Crumbling the Antiseptic Beauty" (1982), received critical acclaim for its dreamy atmospheres and evocative lyrics. Subsequent albums like "The Splendour of Fear" (1984) and "Ignite the Seven Cannons" (1985) further solidified Felt's reputation as one of the leading bands in the UK indie scene.

3. Influence and Legacy: Felt's music had a significant influence on the indie pop and alternative music scenes of the 1980s and beyond. Their lo-fi aesthetic, intricate arrangements, and poetic lyrics inspired a generation of musicians and bands, including The Smiths, Belle and Sebastian, and The Jesus and Mary Chain. Despite never achieving mainstream success, Felt's cult following and enduring influence have cemented their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the post-punk era.

4. Disbandment and Aftermath: Felt disbanded in 1989 after Lawrence decided to pursue other musical projects. Following the breakup of Felt, Lawrence formed the band Denim and later released music under his own name. Despite the end of Felt, Lawrence's distinctive songwriting style and artistic vision continued to resonate with fans, ensuring that the band's legacy lived on.

5. Reissues and Rediscovery: In recent years, Felt's back catalog has been reissued and rediscovered by a new generation of music fans. Reissues of their albums, along with compilation releases, have introduced Felt's music to a wider audience and renewed interest in their work. The band's influence on contemporary indie pop and alternative music remains evident, as their timeless melodies and poetic lyrics continue to captivate listeners decades after their initial release.