A band ejected from the X Factor last night have spoken of feeling let down by judge Gary Barlow - who said they were his favourite band but failed to pick them for his final three acts

Brick City, a four piece made up of Yazmin Manassib, 23, Duane Lamonte, 28 and James Bellamy, 25, all from Finsbury Park, along with Anton Hearn, 27, from south London, failed to make it through to the live shows after singing for the former Take That star in New York.

Mr Lamonte said the band was “gutted” to be out of the competition - especially since they had such a strong bond with Gary.

Prior to their performance Mr Barlow whispered to guest judge Olly Murs Brick City were his “favourite group” and the band described him as “like a dad” to them.

Mr Lamonte said: “We did think we were through. Especially after Gary’s comments.

“If Gary thought we were his favourite band in the competition and that we had a connection all the others may have felt the same thing.

“How can you feel like that and make that decision?”

He asked: “Gary, what made you change your mind?”

Brick City covered Been Around the World by Lisa Stansfield, but their performance wasn’t enough to earn them a place in he next stage.

Mr Barlow said although he “loved (Brick City) from the beginning” and had “loved every performance”, he had “seen them better”. Guest judge Mr Murs said the group lacked chemistry and came across as “just put together”.

His comments paved the way for Brick City’s premature exit from the ITV talent show. “It was a gutting experience but at the same time it was an amazing experience,” added Duane.

“It was great just being in New York and great to work with Gary, who is really down to earth and lovely.”

Now the group will start touring with boy band Blue this weekend and have plans for their own “flagship” show in Islington later this year.

The remaining groups Rough Copy, Kingsland Road and Miss Dynamix are through to the Live Shows stage of the competition.