The James Hunter Six

Recently signed to Brooklyn’s funky Daptone label, the Colchester rhythm and blues swinger was in a playful mood as he delivered a rocking set of gritty soul. The beefy baritone and honking tenor saxes combined well with organist Kyle Koehler’s Jimmy McGriff style, and Hunter’s vocals brought to mind mid-60s Georgie Fame on ‘Let The Monkey Ride’ and ‘Gipsy’ with its ‘Tequila’ based riff. A couple of numbers had a ska/bluebeat feel, and the dancers were well catered for throughout a funky set that featured Hunter’s accomplished guitar playing and soulful voice, combining expertly with his on-the-money band.

The Haunt, 31 January 2015
Rating:
Steve Clements