The Joy Hotel
Someone once wrote; The Joy Hotel isn’t just a band; it’s an experience. This seven-piece alt-rock collective from Glasgow defies categorisation, weaving an amorphous mix of psych-rock, alt-rock, and even a dash of country into their sound. The group’s chemistry is palpable, a product of a chance meeting between songwriters Luke Boyce and Emme Woods back in the summer of 2018. Their instant connection set the foundation for The Joy Hotel, which has since grown into a dynamic ensemble featuring Jack Boyce, Jack Borrill, Jenny Clifford, Juan Laforet, and Scott Flanagan.
The band’s early days saw them build a cult following, starting with a sold-out debut gig at The Blue Arrow in Glasgow. Word spread quickly, and they continued to sell out increasingly larger venues like McChuill’s, King Tut’s, and St. Luke’s—all through word of mouth. Their rise was swift, and festival stages across the UK and Europe soon followed.
The culmination of three years of writing and arranging led them to Rockfield Studios in Monmouth, Wales, where they spent eleven immersive days recording live-to-tape. The result was Ceremony, a 56-minute debut album that captures the raw energy and intricate musicianship of the band. It’s a seamless, continuous piece of music that dives deep into themes of hope, regret, love, and the relentless passage of time. The album’s standout tracks, 'Jeremiah,' 'Old Mans Eyes,' and 'Killing Time,' are testament to the group’s skill in crafting songs that feel both timeless and contemporary.
What sets The Joy Hotel apart is their layered vocal work. The call-and-response exchanges between Luke and Emme, along with six-part harmonies, evoke the spirit of Laurel Canyon’s heyday. It’s a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh, blending beautiful balladry with a touch of humour, and psychedelic arrangements that transport you into a cinematic soundscape. It’s this ability to meld genres and styles, from pop songwriting sensibilities to noise rock elements, that makes The Joy Hotel’s music so compelling.
The band’s live performances are equally unforgettable, characterised by a rolling thunder of guitar, keys, singing bass lines, and even Scott’s playful but precise triangle playing. There’s a sense of discovery in every song, with each listen revealing new layers and nuances. It’s an auditory journey not to be missed.
Catch The Joy Hotel live at Queen Margaret Union on the 5th of December at 7:00 pm—prepare for a show that promises to be as genre-defying as it is memorable. Get Tickets