Hospitality

"Friends of Friends" MP3
from the album Hospitality
2012
iTunes

BY ERICA MATLIN | Jonk Music

Before I begin, I must admit that I'm a little biased towards Hospitality. First off, they are from Brooklyn, and as a New York native, I appreciate that their music captures the cool vibe of the city as opposed to the up tight/obnoxious view that has been made famous by the likes of Woody Allen. Secondly, their video features Alia Shawkat of Arrested Development which happens to be, quite possibly, the greatest TV show of all time.

But back to the music, "Friends of Friends" is a multi-instrumental, vocally rich song that gives off a silly vibe. By silly, I don't mean ridiculous by any means, but the type of fun you and that tight-knit group of childhood friends comes across on a Saturday afternoon. Hospitality, made up of Amber Papini, Nathan Michel, and Brian Betancourt, separates itself from the other indie pop bands of our time because of their whimsical sound and the sense of youth their music offers. Sure, it is poetic in that their lyrics paint a vivid picture for its listeners, "Got a cheap dress on, with a wrinkled sleeve," but their descriptive words are purely for amusement and universal understanding. These eclectic artists are not trying to exude some greater, life shattering meaning: They are using their talent to kick back and have a good time, so that we can too.

What is even more enticing with this particular track is that just when you think the song is over and you imagine the lights dimming in the bar for last call, they pick back up again with their catchy chorus. With Hospitality, the party never ends, so enjoy it with your friends, new and old.