A rare foray (for me) to the Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich last night to see the James Hunter Six. Nearly a year since I was last at the Wolsey and a mere twenty years since we saw James Hunter at the now defunct Lion’s Den shortly after we moved down to Ipswich from the North East. This one was a somewhat less sweaty, more genteel environment but still an excellent gig nonetheless.
It was a full house and I’m guessing there were more than a few long time fans in the audience, maybe even some who remember his previous incarnation as Howlin’ Wilf! Hunter’s soulful style hasn’t really changed that much over the years and might best be described as modern take on the R&B of artists like Ray Charles and, to a letter extent, Bobby Bland. Superficially, the self penned songs could be seen as lacking in light and shade, but they are a little more nuanced than they first appear; it’s just that they all carry that signature, snappy R&B vibe, ballads, rockers and uptempo instrumentals alike – perfectly judged R&B arrangements that spark and bounce. Hunter has quite a nice line in witty lyrics, although his primary subject matter, like all good R&B, is love lost, won and ‘cheated on’.
First and foremost however, he’s a fantastic live performer, full of energy that belies his 53 years. He had a fantastic six piece band (including himself on guitar) for this live set and the inclusion of organ in the mix certainly helped to flesh out the sound. He has a new album out (‘Hold On’) and would, like all his previous releases, be a worthwhile purchase for any lover of R&B or real soul. It has justifiably been receiving some glowing reviews since its release. Probably Britain’s best soul singer by some distance, if you get a chance to see him live then don’t hesitate. It probably won’t be life changing but it will be life affirming. A great homegrown talent still clearly enjoying live performance and showcasing real music in an age of artificially created manufactured ‘drivel by committee’.