Wayward songwriter Matt Hopper doesn’t really have a homebase: “For me, it’s touring and couch surfing,” he says, adding that he hasn’t “had an apartment or anything since 2004.” That said, Hopper, a native Alaskan, rubs elbows with some notable Alaskan transplants—he’s currently touring through his home state with local folk duo the Old Believers, who he’s also recording a split EP with next year. And, you know, some of those above-mentioned couches reside in Portland, a town he makes sure to play about four times a year.

Taking all that—and the fact that Hopper’s Reverse Odyssey is one of my fave listens as of late—into consideration, I’ve decided to deem him an honorary Portlander and sharing this rad track (which is just one of many excellent selections on the really versatile and lovely Odyssey) with you, dear LocalCut reader. Consider it an early Christmas gift from Hopper to me to you.

As you’ll note, “Hot Mama,” which heads off Reverse Odyssey, starts off sounding like a straight-up bar rock number—all riffs, palm-muting and hand claps. But a minute or so in, you realize it’s so much more. First of all, the line “better make a good impression or he’ll kick your ass” makes me smile every time. Secondly, the lyrical theme of old folks not getting what it’s like to be “young and in love” is a timeless winner. Finally, that backbeat-ridden break on which Hopper launches into a high-pitched croon on “kiss and touch” has a bit of Oldies charm that’s as instantly lovable as it is a little surprising.

In short, this is the most genuine, fun song I’ve heard in ages: It’s got a playful, rebellious attitude, a youthful spirit and a slew of interesting folk-rock parts that are matched up in perfect, driving, hook-laden glory. Hopper reminds me of a less bratty Ryan Adams or a grittier Mason Jennings (which is, by no means, meant to sell his originality short)—and, honestly, I’m starting to like him better than either of ‘em.

Download audio file (hotmama.mp3)

Links:
Hopper on the web
HopperSpace

Photo: taken from Hopper’s MySpace.