Hotel of the Laughing Tree preview new album with catchy single, "“Amaretto Thundersong"
Hotel of the Laughing Tree has always been a band unafraid to take risks, blending thoughtful songwriting with a kaleidoscope of dynamic sounds. With their latest single, “Amaretto Thundersong,” the group not only reaffirms their indie rock roots but elevates their craft to exhilarating new heights. This track, a preview of their forthcoming sixth LP, A Mountain Fastness (out March 18, 2025), is a vibrant, richly textured anthem that promises an exciting chapter for the band’s reassembled original lineup.
From the first notes of “Amaretto Thundersong,” it’s clear that Hotel of the Laughing Tree has mastered the delicate balance of creating something that’s both immediately accessible and deceptively intricate. The song opens with lush instrumentation—subtle horns weaving into buoyant guitar lines—setting the stage for an expansive soundscape that feels full of life and discovery. The combination of warm, organic textures and spirited indie rock energy makes it impossible not to lean in and savor every detail.
Vocally, AJ Estrada’s performance is nothing short of intoxicating. His dynamic range and emotional delivery anchor the track, driving it forward with an almost magnetic pull. There’s a playful urgency to the vocals, shifting effortlessly between moments of softness and bursts of passion. It’s the kind of performance that not only commands attention but invites listeners into the emotional core of the song. Estrada’s vocals, paired with the band’s knack for crafting catchy melodies, make “Amaretto Thundersong” a track that lingers long after it’s over.
The instrumentation is another standout element, showcasing the band’s ability to layer their sound without losing clarity or focus. The horns are a subtle but powerful addition, giving the song depth and a playful edge that sets it apart from more straightforward indie rock fare. It’s a testament to the group’s commitment to crafting songs that are as rich as they are catchy, rewarding multiple listens with new details to uncover.
What makes “Amaretto Thundersong” truly special, though, is how effortlessly it captures a sense of joy and adventure. It’s vibrant and upbeat without feeling lightweight, brimming with an infectious energy that hints at great things to come on A Mountain Fastness. There’s a sense of purpose in every element, from the tight instrumentation to the clever shifts in tone and mood, making it clear that Hotel of the Laughing Tree is operating at the top of their game.
This single serves as both a celebration of the band’s history and a bold step forward. It’s rare to hear a track that feels so carefully constructed yet brims with such spontaneity and warmth.
Hotel of the Laughing Tree has long been a treasure in the indie scene, and with “Amaretto Thundersong,” they remind us why. This is indie rock at its finest—vibrant, heartfelt, and impossible to resist. It’s immediate on first listen and only continues to unspool with repeated listens! Go ahead and enjoy for yourselves and follow along for more by clicking those links below.
Listen to “Amaretto Thundersong”
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