The Features returned to Louisville on Wednesday night, bringing their usual loud, grinding rock to a nearly full Headliners Music Hall. Supporting acts included local indie rockers Whistle Peak and The Fervor.
The venue was filled with people fairly quickly, and the opening acts captured the audience's attention. Whistle Peak delivered their catchy, melodic tunes, and The Fervor certainly did not disappoint. Much to the surprise of the bands (and myself, I might add), however, the audience largely failed to reciprocate. Both opening acts seemed to wonder why the crowd was so sluggish. The Fervor's lead singer even alluded to the idea that, based upon audience response, the band had only played two good songs in its entire set.
A lack of audience response is not rare when it comes to supporting acts at a show. Maybe everyone was excited only for The Features. Who knew?
The Features took the stage, beginning the set with a local favorite "The Drawing Board". The band was, as usual, almost too much fun. They continued with old favorites and songs from their new record, Wilderness, but did not fail to introduce everyone in attendance to a few brand new songs. These selections were, not surprisingly, just as exciting and lovable as the well-known numbers.
What was surprising, however, was the audience's continued sluggishness. Reciprocal energy was still nowhere to be seen or heard. In my experience, most bands that come to Louisville are surprised at people's enthusiastic response and energy when it comes to music. This Thanksgiving Eve must have been the exception to the rule, as the crowd acted as if it had already had too much turkey and wanted only to nap.
The band did oblige the few people in the front row who worked for an encore, but came out only for a two minute song, just before walking off stage as quickly as possible. And we do not blame them.
Have no fear, Features: we love you! Please come back!
