When Toledo’s new track “Hot Stuff” dropped, I was immediately captivated by the dreamlike tones of their vocals. The guitar strumming in the background really sets a melodic tone that compliments the voices of Dan and Jordan very well, and, when the electronic beats kick in, it’s a pleasant surprise that instantly flows well with the guitar tune.
The constant addressing of “you” in this song grabs the listener and gives the song more of a personal feel, making it impossible not to relate to the lyrics. This tune drips nostalgic atmosphere, referencing dreams and recalled memories in an endearing way.
I’m dreaming of your face,
Where you can always find me.
You can always find me.
With the lyrics they placed in the middle of the tune, it seems to be that Toledo was strung along by a lover, but doesn’t care because they still care about them and want to feel how they felt before with them. With promises of being the same as they were before and disliking change, they subtly beg for a chance to see their lover again:
I’ll be the same as I’ve been
So please, please string me up on again.
I’m so tired of change
Want to feel the same.
Also, the relatability of reoccurring people you care about in your life showing up in your dreams is played upon, with the desire to see them, the more they tend to appear:
There you go again,
In my dreams again.
A nice touch the duo placed into the song is the dialogue towards the ends that plays over the guitar and beats. It provides a little more context and meaning to the lyrics, putting a voice to the person this song refers to. With their lyrics reflecting the past and repeating that they’ve been waiting so long, the end of the dialogue/voicemail message adds a sweet ending to the short story by saying “It’s really nice to see you again”.
Overall a very sweet track that I would recommend to anyone longing to talk to/ see someone. This song could put even the most worried mind at ease and forget their troubles for 3 minutes and 29 seconds.
