Undeniably Groovy: Hotel Fiction Releases “Cold Cold Heart”

Hotel Fiction has made yearning danceable with their new single “Cold Cold Heart.” Rooted in emotional depth and strong lyricism, the Athens, Georgia-based duo has crafted a song you cannot sit still through. 

Hotel Fiction, made up of Jade Long (vocals & keys) and Jessica Thompson (vocals & lead guitar), began in 2021 and has been on the rise ever since. With only two albums out, this new single is the beginning spark of a new era, and the anticipation is building with every listen.

The song kicks off with the drums and immediately settles into a groove. The lyrics “You lay against me / But you're just a memory / Just a thought with no one there” contrast beautifully over the layers of guitar, keys, and synths that are building throughout the first verse.

The vocals are just as addictive as the rhythm. Long and Thompson’s harmonies are so pleasing to the ear, and the melody floats on top of the beat so gracefully you can’t help but switch between swaying and grooving. 

Throughout the song, the keys and synths are very prominent, curating a 70s vibe. After the chorus, “If only I could feel your / Cold cold heart,” the song breaks down into an instrumental section that showcases the talent and diversity in Long and Thompson’s repertoire. The consistent drum beat underneath the layers simplifies, and the guitars take the lead. The bass becomes more recognizable, and the keys and synths build you back up to the chorus, which repeats one last time.

These strong musical arrangements are what make Hotel Fiction so fun to listen to. You can appreciate the beauty in their voices and lyricism, but you can also hone in on the instrumental and dance like no one is watching. 

Hotel Fiction is going on tour this fall with Porch Light, and “Cold Cold Heart” will most definitely be a crowd favorite. They will be playing it live this weekend at Shaky Knees for the first time, and their set is definitely not one to miss!!

Review by Alyssa Bole