The Binoculars
Sunny's Bar253 Conover St, New York 11231
Brooklyn duo The Binoculars, longtime friends Kaethe Hostetter and Chloë Swantner, bring songs from their debut covers album Double Whammy, released on Jalopy Records in July 2026.
Hostetter and Swantner sing and play violin and guitar, with Swantner also on lap steel. Their repertoire gathers songs from country duets and fiddle tunes to Ethiopian folk and other international material, shaped by close vocal harmonies. Americana Highways called Double Whammy “charming,” praising its “excellent playing” and “wonderfully expressive” vocals.
Sunny's Bar offers a distinctive evening where the past and present merge in a room filled with nautical memorabilia and worn wooden tables that invite close conversation. The back saloon hosts live music most nights, with a special focus on bluegrass jams that spill out onto the cobblestone street, creating a communal vibe where musicians and listeners mingle freely. Drinks are simple and affordable, served at a cash-only bar that encourages presence and connection rather than distraction. The space feels like a time capsule, echoing its history as a gathering spot for dockworkers and sailors, yet it remains a lively hub for local artists and neighbors. Expect a night where music and community take center, with room to talk, dance, and soak in the authentic character of this enduring Brooklyn venue.