Sneaky Feelings

Named after an Elvis Costello composition, the Dunedin, New Zealand quartet Sneaky Feelings came together in 1980. Guitarists Matthew Bannister and David Pine joined forces with bassist Kathryn Tyrie and drummer Martin Durrant, each member supplying both vocals and original material. Their initial exposure arrived via the Flying Nun label’s inaugural release, the 1981 compilation Dunedin Double, which was soon followed by the standalone single “Be My Friend.” Activity then stalled when Durrant departed for an extended stay abroad; bassist John Kelcher took Tyrie’s place in 1983, further slowing momentum. The group finally issued its well-received debut album, Send You, in 1984. The following year brought the classic single “Husband House,” with “Better Than Before” emerging in 1986. Their second LP, Sentimental Education, drew muted notices upon its 1987 arrival, yet the 1988 follow-up Hard Love Stories fared considerably better. That release proved to be the last featuring Durrant, who was succeeded by drummer Ross Burge. Kelcher’s departure in mid-1989 prompted the band’s dissolution; Bannister subsequently formed Dribbling Darts, Kelcher joined Creeley, and Pine entered Death Ray Cafe. Three tracks captured at a 1990 reunion performance were later added to a CD reissue of Send You.