Imagine Ray Charles, Jimmy Buffet and Elvis combining styles in a British concert hall. If you can hear the soul, the mellow guitar, and the rich, buttery voice – you have experienced a James Hunter show. The Brit ran on stage in a cool suit, no tie, followed by four other Rat Pack cool cats. The band was composed of Hunter’s guitar, a huge cello-like base, an organist, an alto and base sax. The saxes stood off the side, creating a chorus line that reminded me of ‘50s style back up singers.
When Hunter began warming up the full house, his rugged British accent seemed to contradict the all-American appeal the band modeled. Yet upon first strum, accent all but disappeared, and he began to sing like a southern soulster. Jazzy, funky, electric Hunter curled his voice around the bee-bop tunes in a gorgeous, thick tone. His high notes were rugged and raspy like Ray Charles, but his lows were smooth and silky like The King himself. It was the perfect fusion of bluesy soul-pop that made me want to dance, drink and be merry!
The slower songs were mainly composed of rolling guitar notes and soft playing from the band. The way he sang the mellow tunes reminded me of Jimmy Buffet, very relaxed, carefree, and catchy. His lyrical message was just as unwinding. Not one ounce of negativity, not one bit of pessimism. Hunter sings about all the good life has to offer, and moves to the crowd to the same height of optimism.
Hunter is a brilliant guitarist. His fingers would zip up and down the instrument so fast, so precise, almost magically. The notes came rapidly and during some solos I could envision smoke steaming off the thing. Even if old school rock and roll isn’t really your thing, it’s the talent behind a Hunter show that I recommend. I guarantee you’ll be blown away. The sax solos were ripe and mixed their jazz forte with rock ‘n’ roll to produce a sound all their own. The players provided much of the entertainment as they swayed, hopped, and boogied to the beat. The organist’s solos were so excellent I was transported to a southern Baptist church, with Hunter as the preacher as his sax choir sang along.
By the second song, the crowd at Belly Up Tavern became a frenzied mob. Some folks new every song word for word and crooned along with Hunter, dancing the whole time. A James Hunter show summed up in four words – a really good time. His music creates a joyful vibe, the kind of feel-good ambiance that makes you feel like you’ve known him and every person in the place your entire life. Between songs Hunter turns into a comedian. He’s charming, funny, and cool – the type of guy you’d want to have a drink with. I suggest a James Hunter show for anyone who wants experience a night of pure entertainment and fun.