Buried Treasure: James Hunter - People Gonna Talk (2006)

Ireland’s James Hunter, a modern aficcionado of 50’s and 60’s American R&B, released his first stateside CD, People Gonna Talk in 2006. (He previously released two others discs in the U. K.)

Hunter instantly reminds you of Sam Cooke seasoned with a dash of Otis Redding. Blended, they create a tasty, savory, and soulful treat. His voice is not rough enough to be confused with Redding's but he's earthier than the late Arthur Alexander, the smooth James Taylor of soul.

The bandleader, who served as a guitarist and backup vocalist for Van Morrison, has a tight group that features two saxophone players: a tenor (Lee Badau), and one of my favorite woodwinds, the baritone sax (Damian Hand or Gavin Whitlock on two tracks). The duo can play tightly as a unit or free and easy on one of their many solos. People Gonna Talk wouldn't be the same album without them.

Hunter’s writing is an asset too. His songs are all about relationships but despite the subject matter there is little sentimentality in his lyrics. Lines like "No one's calling you a liar but there’s no smoke without fire" from "No Smoke Without Fire" and "Strike me dead if I don’t love you and I'll be damned if I do" from "You Can’t Win" show there is no cheese factor in his lyrics.

The musician's songs are compact, to the point, danceable, and radio friendly. He wrote and arranged all fourteen tracks.