Sounds: Sexy, electro funk (think Prince/Rick James); retro-groovin’ rock (think Lenny Kravitz); gritty, orchestrated soul (think Curtis Mayfield), seductive pulsing r&b (that’s his own style), and safer, borderline-cheesy pop (a style he should disown).
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Hot Stage Lights“; “If I Take You Home (Upon…)“; “Being A
Girl“; “Suspicion (She Knows Me Too Well)“
Medium Rotation tracks: “Priest or Police“; “The Thrill of This Love“; “Character“
Recommended: This sophomore album has a lot more oomph and bounce than his understated debut. It also boasts an extensive rage of styles that’s impressive but occasionally unwieldy. Plus, some moments sound more like imitation than influence. Van Hunt’s at his best when he’s making sensual jams for the ladies that hit hard enough for the fellas. Few people’s tastes are likely to be broad and forgiving enough to like everything on here, but there’s definitely something for everybody.
Grade: B+