When the notoriously private Van Morrison praises a particular musician, that individual merits a closer look. Meet British R&B sensation James Hunter, who counts the Belfast troubadour among his biggest boosters (Morrison also appears on his 1996 debut, ...Believe What I Say). Recorded at London's Toe Rag Studios, an analogue favorite of Billy Childish and the White Stripes, The Hard Way showcases a rough and ready voice that recalls Sam Cooke and Georgie Fame after a few smokes and a tasteful, minimalist six-string approach. If Hunter eschews modernity, The Hard Way plays more like a reinvention of 1950s forms than a mere throwback. In that sense, the Colchester native performs a similar function to former touring partner Chris Isaak. His fourth platter adds New Orleans flavor thanks to famed producer/pianist Allen Toussaint, who guests on three tracks. With no covers and no filler, The Hard Way looks set to garner Hunter a second Grammy nod--if not a first win. As Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings have proven, keeping soul alive in the 2000s isn't just about getting the sound right, but about nailing that non-ironic feel, and James Hunter performs his neo-classic tunes like he means every note. --Kathleen C. Fennessy
Disc 1
- Track 1 - The Hard Way
- Track 2 - Tell Her
- Track 3 -
- Track 4 - Carina
- Track 5 -
- Track 6 - Til The End
- Track 7 - Hand It Over
- Track 8 - Jacqueline
- Track 9 - Class Act
Similar Product(s):
People Gonna Talk
...Believe What I Say
Keep It Simple
Lay It Down
All I Intended to Be
Details last updated 0 hours ago.
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8.0
Fresh from the past
Surprisingly fresh feeling sending you from 2008 back to the heart of rock n roll
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10.0
I am burning a hole in this CD from playing it so much!!
I have listened to this cd nonstop since I got it 2 months ago. I first saw James Hunter as the opening act for Chris Isaak. I walked into the concert late, not expecting to pay attention to the opening act. And as I walked through the gate, I was blown away! I turned to my husband and asked "who the H&% is THAT?? He's AMAZING!" I ran forward to watch the show and promptly bought a cd. I'm still shaking my head that more people haven't heard of him. He's incredible. Great voice. Great writing. Great guitar. Great saxes. Great BAND. Classic style like Sam Cooke and Jackie Wilson.... but still has his own sound. Love, love, LOVE James Hunter! I listen to the whole album from beginning to end probably at least once a day. Best track on the cd: Jacqueline.
The music is outstanding. The analog sound on the vinyl has a wonderful warm sound as only analog can have. The only surprise was that it doesn't seem to be stereo. If that is indeed the case it should be noted on the record.
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10.0
"The Hard Way" captures Hunter's Soul and Rockin' Rhythm
James Hunter new release "The Hard Way" meets the challenge of putting out an album that rivals his previous release, "People Gonna Talk." Although Hunter shows his rockin' fervor with "Don't do me no favors" and "Jacqueline," he shows his balladeer expertise with "Hand it Over" and the ska tinged "Carina."
As in previous albums, his voice hearkens back to Jackie Wilson, which he does with the title track and "Ain't going nowhere". However, their seems to be more of a Ray Charles influence, which is evident in the aforementioned "Don't do me no favors,""She's got a Way" and "Believe me Baby."
Credit is also due to Hunter's backing band that is tight sounding as ever. If you get to see them in concert, you will be energized and buzzed all night long.
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6.0
So-so sound on vinyl
I tend to fall somewhat in the middle of the other reviewers. People Gonna Talk is definitely the better album. There's really no point in buying this on vinyl, since it sounds very flat and digital-which is a shame considering it was recorded at Toe Rag on all vintage analog equipment. Hopefully when People Gonna Talk comes out on vinyl, they'll do a better job!
Try to catch James live if he comes to your town--he puts on a great show!
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10.0
James Hunter/The Hard Way: As Good as I Can Find Now
I couldn't imagine who was singing those soulful, Motown, Temptations-like tunes I grew up with from CKLW when I heard them on WMNF only 2 months ago. This is a great addition to my CD collection. No better purchase can be made if you love the Temptations and R & B from the 60's and early 70's...What a great voice, excellent backups and musicians who do it the right way. I am so glad I bought it. Just purchased two more of his CDs. Thanks for having it in stock!!
In my humble opinion, James Hunter is musics most underrated performer. He simply puts out tremendous music, plays intimate venues that allow you to be fortunate enough to be there listening. If you ever get the chance, try to see him in concert or at least get his CD to listen to truly one of musics magical performers. If you get the idea that i think he is pretty good, that would be an understatement. To listen to James play is as good as it gets......enjoy!
