Search - Van Hunt :: Van Hunt

Don't let the overused "neo-soul" label fool you. An easy A+

guillermoj | Washington, DC United States | 05/25/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Like many of today's very best R&B's up and coming acts, Van Hunt has been cornered into the "neo-soul" label as it seems to make it easier for the A&R guys to market acts that don't quite fit the R&B model of the moment. Acts like D'Angelo, Rahsaan Patterson, Olu, Maxwell, Donnie, Dwele seem to get the short end of the stick as their respect for their musical heroes (be it Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Bill Whithers, just to name a few) does not mean that their music lacks originality or individual vision. Not to knock down other acts but I don't hear people being as hard on Beyonce, Kelly Clarkson, Brandy, or acts that may have great/good voices, but are generally accompanied by the most of generic musical accompaniments that are in vogue in a certain period and lyrics that they generally had nothing to do with creating. These acts usually sell many more records than a Van Hunt, but those who like Beyonce may just find that this record may be even catchier than the fast food that they are used to. Also, it should be noted that Van Hunt writes, arranges, produces, and obviously sings his material. The point here is that what he sings has his stamp all over it and unlike many (even more experienced acts) his production is tight and not self-indulgent. That is not to say that all great acts have to write their own music, as many including acts ranging all the way back from Aretha Franklin to Joss Stone (2003's "it" girl) make it clear that there is certainly a place for great interpreters of music.If I had to put a label on Van Hunt it would be old school soul meets contemporary R&B, which could describe many of the acts that I described above, but all "neo-soul" is not made by equally talented people. For example I am not a huge fan of Thicke, while I think that Raphael Saadiq is the most talented act of the "grouping." Van Hunt's strength lies in he was obviously weaned on the masters, but does not mimic them, and simply uses them as a point of departure. Also, if you listen closely to the lyrics, you may be surprised at what he is saying versus what the music is saying. So what do I think about this CD in particular? In a word: SUBLIME. The CD kicks off with the infectious "Dust". Next comes the bluesy and seductive "Seconds of Pleasure" which has a Stevie Ray Vaughn meets Marvin Gaye vibe that works like magic. "Hello, Goodbye" is an expressive plea that seems very much influenced by Tony! Toni! Tone!, a band that was never as successful as they should have been. The retro flute on "Down Here On Hell With You" reminds me of the song "You Don't Have to Be a Star (To Be in My Show)" by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., but Van Hunt's lyrics and other musical artillery takes the song to an entirely new place. "What Can I Say" has a riff that sounds like Harry Chapin's "Cat's in the Cradle" and Van Hunt's voice takes a great turn and seems influenced by Terence Trent D'Arby. The result sounds like one of the best lullabies EVER. By now you may be thinking that I am contradicting myself by being able to play the "name the influence" game, but my goal here is to try to describe what I hear so that you can make up your mind before taking the risk of spending hard-earned money. Many reviews just say that they like or hate something, without being explicit so I really appreciate when people take the time to try articulate why they felt how they felt about anything. In fact some of my greatest discoveries have come from other great Amazoners who take the time to share the wealth. THANKS TO ALL!!!!! The rest of the CD is just as good and shows Van Hunt's versatility. It took me two full listenings to realize what a gem this release is. The first time around it did little for me, yet the second time it miraculously grabbed my being and still won't let go. Although it's only May, this release will certainly be high on my list of 2004 very best releases. 5 well-earned stars. Don't fall asleep on this release as I promise you that if you are a fan of great male soul singers and are tired of some of what passes as musical arrangements these days, this release gives much hope that there may be a place for great acts who are not a producer's construct or the latest "find" in televised talent competitions that serve as the greatest marketing tool this side of hypnosis. Enjoy and pass the word."

So Underrated, people are really missing out on a blessing

June Gemini | Washington, DC USA | 06/27/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There is much I can say about this man's music. Two years ago a friend invited me to see Van Hunt perform at some bar/club in Baltimore, I didn't not know what I was in store for He and his band put 200% into their performances that night. Van Hunt sang the entire album and he performed so well, he was humble yet confident. His skill of performance mirrors Prince to me simply because Prince gives you an excellent performance and so did Van Hunt. Something special took place that night, because if you didn't know who he was coming in, you were his #1 fan before leaving. I've been waiting for Van Hunt to come and perform in the Washington, Dc area again, he's a must see. I know people read these reviews because they want insight on the actual music on the particular CD. Well from track 1 to track 12 you will not be disappointed at all. When you hear his music you can relate or at least understand the stories. He's singing some great stories on this CD and on his latest CD. Van Hunt should have won some BET, MTV and many other awards. He is a pioneer with his music and his whole style. Just from his first CD, everyone should know his name and face, but they don't. If I could I would treat everyone to this CD because I know you will be blessed. When I want to relax and reflect on things I pop in a mix CD I made with all the songs from Van Hunt's first CD, about 2 Anthony Hamilton songs, 1 India Aerie, and 2 John Legend, lay back, kick my feet up and listen to some music that soothes my soul. The only people I can imagine not liking this CD are people who are kind of shallow and can't appreciate music that's deep and meaningful"