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James Hunter - The Hard Way |
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Written by Ryan Marvel
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Jul 01, 2008 at 04:27 PM |
Artist: James Hunter
Album: The Hard Way
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Release Date: 06.10.2008
Label: Hear Music
Rating: 10/10
Having never heard of James Hunter before, I was 50% excited and 50% nervous when I put this album in. From the cover art, I was expecting some sort of country/blues mix, but I was quite wrong. Hunter’s unique blend of blues, jazz, soul, and rock is refreshing and original, at least in this decade.
The Hard Way’s title track reminded me of Bobby Darin or something that may have shown up on American Bandstand, thanks in large part to Hunter’s voice. It has an old-time feel, it is very up-beat, and honestly just a great track. This style shows up again and again, but it does not get repetitive. Each track puts its own twist on the genre, sometimes adding a swing feel or leaning heavily on blues.
Everyone once in a while, you might find yourself wondering if this is a Ray Charles album. A perfect example of this is "She’s Got A Way." This track reminded me instantly of Charles’ "What’d I Say." While James Hunter has a firm hold on the fast blues, he also performs well on slow tracks such as "Hand it Over." Not bobbing your head along is basically not an option. Again borrowing from Charles’ vocal style, Hunter’s voice has a sort of painful quality that can draw you into the song and keep you there for as long as you are willing.
In addition to great vocals, The Hard Way also features some fantastic piano and guitar riffs (I’m looking at you, "Believe Me Baby"). "Strange But True," an entirely acoustic song, ties with "She’s Got A Way" for my favorite song of the album.
Hunter’s talented band provides soulful and complimentary backup to his own style, and the mix produces one of the best albums I’ve heard this year.
Hunter has a gift in his singing and songwriting; I’m looking forward to hearing more from him in the future.
1. The Hard Way
2. Tell Her
3. Don’t Do Me No Favours
4. Carina
5. She’s Got A Way
6. ‘Til The End
7. Hand It Over
8. Jacqueline
9. Class Act
10. Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere
11. Believe Me Baby
12. Strange But True
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