Today I’m checking out a song called Feeling Fine by Alex Hutkins and This Hings. This was one of the earliest suggestions I received on my channel, and I’ve been meaning to get to it for a while.
It’s a short track, only about two minutes, but I’m excited to hear what it has to offer. I’ll be reacting to it from my perspective as a classical guitarist.
I’ve been playing for 25 years, earned a master’s degree in classical guitar performance, and spend most of my week teaching and practicing. I’ll watch the performance straight through without stopping, share my first impressions, and then break down some of the musical details I notice.
Key Takeaways
- I revisit an early song suggestion from my list.
- I react and share thoughts as an experienced classical guitarist.
- I plan to give both first impressions and a brief analysis.
About the Song
Overview of ‘Feeling Fine’
I first got Feeling Fine as one of the earliest suggestions on my channel. I don’t remember who sent it, but it’s been on my list for a while.
The performance felt short but sweet, with smooth, legato scales that stood out right away. I noticed a technique at the start that reminded me of the Dire Straits guitarist — a mix of picking and using the thumb.
The playing stayed super clean throughout, with sections that felt upbeat and fun. One fast scale run caught my attention for how smooth and quick it was.
Song Length and Style
- Length: About 2 minutes
- Style: Smooth, legato phrasing with clean execution
- Techniques Heard:
- Slurs
- Thumb picking mixed with regular picking
- Fast, fluid scale runs
The short length made it easy to enjoy from start to finish. The style kept a light, upbeat feel without losing precision.
About the Artist
Who Is Alex Hutkins
I first heard about Alex Hutkins when someone suggested his song Feeling Fine to me. I didn’t know much about him before, but his playing caught my attention right away.
The track is short—only about two minutes—but it’s packed with clean, smooth guitar work that feels effortless.
Musical Influences
When I listened, I noticed a style that reminded me a bit of the Dire Straits guitarist. He used a technique that mixes picking with the thumb, which gave the sound a warm and natural feel.
His scales were very legato, with smooth slurs and fast, precise runs. Some parts stood out with upbeat, almost playful phrases, while others felt calm and flowing.
The combination of clean technique and tasteful phrasing made the performance enjoyable from start to finish.
First Impressions
Initial Thoughts
The piece felt short and sweet, lasting only about two minutes. The scales stood out for being super smooth and very legato.
I noticed a bit of a style similar to the Dire Straits guitarist, mixing picking with a big thumb technique. I especially liked how clean and precise the playing was.
The fast scale section near the end showed great control and speed.
Key points I noticed:
- Smooth legato scales
- Clean execution
- Fast, accurate runs
- Interesting thumb and picking combination
Emotional Impact
The music went straight to my heart. Even though it was short, it left a pleasant and upbeat feeling.
Some sections felt bright and energetic, making me smile while listening. The part I loved most had a lively, almost playful energy that made it stand out.
It’s the kind of piece that leaves you wanting to hear more.
Musical Analysis
Smooth Legato and Scales
I noticed the scales sounded super smooth and very legato. The notes flowed into each other without breaks, and the slurs made the phrases even more connected.
At one point, the fast scale run stood out because it was both clean and even, with no rough edges in the sound.
Guitar Techniques Used
Right at the start, I caught a technique similar to the Dire Straits guitarist’s style, where you combine picking with the thumb. It gave the notes a warm tone and a softer attack.
The use of slurs added to the smoothness, and the picking was precise without any unwanted noise.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Legato | Smooth note connection using slurs |
| Thumb Picking | Plucking strings with thumb for warmth |
| Fast Scale Runs | Quick, clean passages with even tone |
Unique Sections of the Song
There was a short section that caught my attention because it felt upbeat and had a different energy from the rest. It stood out with its rhythm and brightness, almost like a quick burst of excitement.
That shift in feel made the piece more interesting and gave it a memorable moment.
Personal Reflections
Classical Guitarist Perspective
When I listen to a performance, I focus on the small details in tone and technique. The smooth, legato scales stood out right away.
I noticed some slurs that flowed naturally and gave the melody a connected feel. At the start, I caught a technique that reminded me of the Dire Straits guitarist — a mix of picking and using the thumb.
This gave the sound a unique texture. The fast scale near the end was clean and precise, which made it even more enjoyable.
Practice and Teaching Insights
I spend most of my week teaching classical guitar, from Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, I either practice or just play for fun.
Lately, I’ve been working on my tremolo for about 20 minutes a day. Here’s a quick look at my routine:
| Day | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Mon–Sat | Teaching students |
| Sunday | Practice or free play |
| Daily | Tremolo exercises |
When I hear smooth and clean playing like this, it reminds me why I stress tone, control, and clarity with my students. Even short pieces can show a lot about a player’s skill.
Community Engagement
Viewer Suggestions
I keep a list of songs and performances that viewers suggest. In the past, I had time to organize all of them in one place, but now there are so many that I usually pick a random one directly from the comments.
I really appreciate every suggestion, and even older ones stay on my list until I get to them.
Example of how I handle suggestions:
| Step | What I Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Read comments for new ideas |
| 2 | Add them to my list (when possible) |
| 3 | Pick one at random for a reaction |
How to Request a Reaction
If you want me to react to something specific, you can leave a comment with your suggestion. I also take direct requests through my Patreon.
Two ways to request:
- Comment on a video – Your suggestion may be picked at random.
- Patreon direct request – Your request goes to the top of my list.
Patreon members also get early access to all my videos, with 30–40 available at any time.
Conclusion
I really enjoyed how smooth and legato the scales sounded, especially during the faster runs. The clean execution made each note connect naturally.
The phrasing felt effortless. One part I liked stood out because of its upbeat and lively feel:
- Opening section – smooth scales with slurs
- Middle section – a mix of picking and thumb technique
- Highlight moment – fast, clean scale that felt energetic
I’d be happy to check out more like this if you send me more suggestions.
