Charleston Welcomes the Ethereal Sounds of Hotel Fiction
As the sun sets over Charleston, a fresh wave of music is sweeping through this vibrant city, and it’s coming from none other than Hotel Fiction, the Athens, Georgia-based band that’s been turning heads with their dreamy sound. The band, made up of singer and guitarist Jessica Thompson and co-lead singer and keyboardist Jade Long, has just released their new album, Staring At The Sun, and it’s exactly what your playlist needs.
Finding Their Groove
During a recent chat, Thompson couldn’t help but laugh when I described their music as having a certain “blurriness.” She thought it was a unique way to describe their sound, which she acknowledges is very much a blending of different elements. “I’ve never heard the word ‘blurriness’ to describe our music,” she said with a smile. But really, the word fits perfectly. Their music soars into the ethereal while still keeping its feet planted firmly on the ground, creating a beautiful mix.
Starting with their debut album, Soft Focus, in 2021, it’s clear that every note is intentional. Thompson’s guitars overflow with reverb and delay, offering that distinct dreamlike vibe that draws you in. Long added, “We enjoy that sort of imaginative way of thinking about it.” And it really shows.
An Ethereal Experience
Whether it’s their lyrical themes or the stunning harmonies shared between the two women, Hotel Fiction takes musical storytelling to another level. Both singers acknowledge that their songs often explore heavy themes like mental health and dissociation. Long remarked, “Sometimes life feels blurry and dreamlike in a lot of ways,” which beautifully ties back to that ethereal quality of their sound.
Thompson and Long’s chemistry has been palpable since they met in 2019 while attending the University of Georgia. Both artists were working on their own separate projects but felt an instant connection during their first jam session. Thompson recalled, “We had a lot of musical chemistry.” Ever since then, they’ve been writing, recording, and performing together without looking back.
Growing Confidence in Their Sound
As they explored their musical path, vocal harmonies became a staple for the duo. Long shared, “I think we started singing together right off the bat,” and as they gained confidence, their harmonies began to blossom. And let us tell you, they are something special—two voices intertwining effortlessly, creating a tapestry of sound that is simply gorgeous.
The band’s latest album, Staring At The Sun, showcases a new level of confidence. Long explained, “Our first record was us figuring things out.” With experience now on their side, they know what they want when stepping into the studio, and it shines through in every track.
Feeding Off the Audience
This new album consists of ten tracks, many of which the duo performed live before the official release. It has become somewhat of a tradition for the band to try out new material at concerts, fueled by their enthusiasm and love for the songs they create. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with fans eagerly asking, “When is this coming out?” after hearing their new pieces live.
The excitement is palpable, and both Thompson and Long are thrilled to finally release this collection of songs for everyone to enjoy. “We’re just excited that the songs are all out now,” Thompson said energetically, “and people have gotten the chance to become familiar with them.” This passion and excitement is what makes their live performances a must-see event, connecting them intimately with their audience.
As Charleston continues to buzz with talent, the arrival of Hotel Fiction and their latest musical venture brings with it a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or newly introduced to their sound, it’s a journey worth diving into. So, grab a seat, turn up the volume, and get lost in the _blurriness_ of Hotel Fiction’s music. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
