Review

James Hunter – The Hard Way (Go records)

For those of you who don’t know (although I know most of you will). James Hunter is the most successful British Rhythm And Blues export since Georgie Fame and Van Morrison (and we’re talking PROPER R&B here!).

Colchester-born Hunter has completely cracked the U.S. What does he sound like? Try and imagine a man whose voice and music is cross between Ray Charles (circa 1960) and Sam Cooke, with some Bobby Bland and Little Johnny Taylor thrown in for good measure. Got it?

This is his fourth solo album and it’s a hard one to review because, if you love that sound you’ll love this cd. All the tempos and grooves are covered (and there are some great dancers on here, by the way) and the song writing is classic and faultless. It’s honestly that good.

I may be biased, I’m afraid, as I’m already a massive fan. But you will be too... I have no choice – a perfect 10.

Thought you may like a short film on the making of 'The Hard Way'
Words SNOWBOY