We often hear good vocalists who find a band to accompany them. Then there are the times we find great musicians who also happen to sing well too. This is the case with Tom Hunter--he’s a great musician who also sings well! Coming from a family of musicians myself, I was excited to hear the keyboard playing of Hunter and his band. His album, “Here I Go Again” kicks off with Doc Pomus’ “I Underestimated You.” This fun tune has a great guitar solo by Jon “Gunner” Gunvaldson, and great vocals and piano by Hunter. The rhythm section rounds off the group as Hunter belts out, “It took just two short weeks to make a monkey out of me..sorry baby….I underestimated you.!” Hunter and his band move right into Pomus’ “Imitation of Love” where the rhythm section shines on this great little tune filled with syncopation! Hunter’s vocals fall into this song, like another instrument rather than vocals accompanied by a band. Fun, strong vocals make this a great dance tune!

“Here I Go Again” by Hunter is a great ol’ down home blues tune. One can’t help but find yourself nodding or swaying to the music. Hunter’s solo shines, as he plays effortlessly while singing soulful vocals. The mood takes a softer side as he starts his introduction to Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind.” Peter Vircks’ sweet sax solo echoes Hunters vocals and keys. Tom Wait’s “New Coat of Paint” is perfect for Hunter as he shows off his raw, gravely vocals while his keyboard playing rolls off likes it’s part of him; natural talent that’s been cultivated, practiced and flawlessly performed.

My two favorite tunes on this album are Ray Charles’ “Drown in My Own Tears” and Joseph Maher’s “Layin’ in the Alley!” Butterfield Blues’ version of “Drown in May Own Tears” is one of my all-time favorites, so I’m a bit partial to this sweet ol’ blues tune. Hunter’s sweet keyboard playing echoes his moving vocals, and the background vocals and Hammond Organ are a nice addition to the song. The tune builds as the percussion rounds out the sound of his lamenting lyrics, “drown in my own tears.” “Layin’ in the Alley” showcases all the musicians--especially Hunter’s fantastic piano playing. If you hear this band play just one song--catch this tune! This little blues shuffle will find folks dancing….then stopping to watch Hunter play as he tickle the ivories. Old friend Lonnie Knight used to stop the house with a guitar solo by Mark Knopfler from “Sultans of Swing.” Tom Hunter’s piano playing on this tune will stop the house and draw everyone into his world….if just for a few moments.

FS Music 2006
PO Box 65026
St. Paul, MN 55165

www.tomhunterblues.com

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