Really, it is the Hammerstein Ballroom but for some reason Leslie Feist repeatedly called out to the audience at the “Hammerstone” again and again last night. This past Tuesday and Wednesday, Feist filled the NYC venue to capacity, bringing together a very eclectic crowd of downtowners and American Idol fans. Not what I expected at first, but I guess it makes sense after all: Feist blew up the f* up last year and rallied together a massive following with her soft lullabies of passion and poetry. Yes, it is a proven fact (I’ve read it somewhere), Feist is addictive. I’ve experienced it, you’ve experienced it; hell, my girl’s mom only owns one CD (The Reminder) which is on constant rotation in her car for months now.

That said, there are some downsides to this. One, the aforementioned (lolli)pop fans in attendance. Two, the constant bickering between friends trying to claim ultimate wisdom and ownership of the music after just a few licks of each new song: “My Moon My Man!, Yes!” “Whoa, Mushaboom!” “That’s my song!” “No wait, this is my song.” Third, even the dudes try to sing along. And I don’t mean muted, barely-moving-your-lips-on-your-way-home-from-work-on-the-subway singing-along.

I’m talking dudes in tight purple jeans (you’ve seen ‘em) attempting to follow her vocal range into its upmost strata. I’m talking bad. A fight —literally— almost broke out over someone singing too loud and continually calling out: “I love you Leslie!” And, finally, a whole bunch of writers like me bitching the next day about a talent they need to share with the masses.

Highpoints: Seeing Feist live adds some wonderful texture to the songs, a deeper appreciation to the instrumentation behind it. The wonderful backdrop of low-tech visuals — including shadow puppets, on-the-spot drawings, cool camera angles on the musicians jamming, etc. — provided by a (shamefully) anonymous artist.

Feist’s stage presence easily envelopes fans, old or new. Her sense of humor is odd and cool. Her voice exceeds your expectations, song after song. And, the ease which your lips form a smile hearing that song — your song — being played.

Here’s a her last video, “I Feel It All“. Also, check her Myspace page here for a list of international cities she’s visiting on this tour.