To associate an artist with this band:
- Search for the artist to see if they are already on Equipboard.
- If the artist is not already on Equipboard, you can add them.
- Then from the artist's page, click Edit Artist Details to associate them with this band.
About
Hotel Books is a compelling musical project that blends the raw emotion of spoken word poetry with the intensity of melodic hardcore and the introspective nature of midwest emo. Originating from Porterville, California, the group is spearheaded by Cameron Smith, whose passionate delivery of cathartic poetry forms the heart of the band's sound. Over the years, Hotel Books has featured a rotating lineup of musicians who contribute to the lush, ambient soundscapes that serve as the backdrop to Smith's poignant narratives. Their music explores themes of personal struggle, faith, and emotional vulnerability, resonating deeply with audiences both in the U.S. and internationally.
How to Sound Like Hotel Books
To capture the unique sound of Hotel Books, musicians should focus on creating an atmosphere where the spoken word can thrive amidst a backdrop of emotive and dynamic instrumentation. The guitar tones are often ambient and expansive, utilizing reverb and delay effects to fill out the sonic space and provide a haunting, echoing feel. Tube amplifiers with a clean yet resonant output can help achieve this rich texture. The drumming should be driving yet sensitive, capable of shifting from explosive intensity to subtle, nuanced patterns that complement the spoken word. Bass lines often carry an emotional weight, anchoring the sound with depth and resonance. Overall, the band's music thrives on contrasts—melding the spoken word's raw honesty with an immersive melodic backdrop, making dynamic control and emotional expression crucial to their sound.
