Ever been to a house party and ‘vibed’ out the entire time to the music in the background? I’m not talking about the occasional one or two songs everyone’s heard fifty million times on the radio which causes a mass karaoke sing-a-long; but actively or even subconsciously enjoyed an entire play list at a party. I’m talking about a playlist that evolves with the wave like patters that occur during a really good house party. From the “kick the door down and let’s take shots!” to the “it’s time to get the sleeping stranger out of the bathtub before you start cleaning” end of the night moments.

Well that’s what hip trio The Dean’s List masterfully crafted in the debut mix tape The Drive In in 2011, and it looks like they’re continuing that trend in 2012 with their studio release of Generation X.

The Drive In, with help from Karmaloop and BroBible as well as DatPiff, Academy, Bandulu, DjBooth and of course, GoodMusicAllDay, told a story from beginning to end touching on topics parallel to the bands success. From bucking the trends to living life’s moments to the fullest, The Drive In seemed to cover it all.

Sonny Shots, DJ Mendoza and Mik Beats accompanied with a wave of underground success seem to have The Dean’s List poised to deliver a perfect homage to a generation in their studio release of Generation X.

A generation that saw the introduction of the home computer, the beginning growth of video game era, cable television and the Internet also nurtured the growth of alternative rock, and the global influence of the hip hop culture and music genre. Generation X represented a more heterogeneous generation, exhibiting great  diversity in such aspects as race, class, religion, and ethnicity. With big band sound, elaborate electronic beats and harmonious compositions, it looks like The Dean’s List is more than qualified to bring back this trend of music, lifestyle and culture with their upcoming album.

While hip hop seems to be the focal point for the musical trio The Dean’s List, pigeon holing them into a single genre feels a bit misleading and disingenuous; especially after watching Friday night’s show at the Key Club. If I had to sum up the up-tempo, youthful and refreshing throwback group from Boston I would be hard pressed to find a single word to do it with. Instead, I would defer to their music and stage presence as the amalgamation of not only hip hop, but rock, alternative, house, dance and pop neatly baked into a polished garage band with flare. All of which sits nicely if you’re looking for a great band to campaign for in coming months or throwing another epic house party.