It’s startling how the Andrew Lewis Hunter Band shifts direction on their latest album, Hyatt. From the melodic guitars and pop polish (think Triple A radio sheen) of “She Passes Right By Me,” it was easy to lump the group into the company of kindred spirits such as Train and Tonic. In other words, roots rock with a contemporary Top-40 crush, professionally produced with an instantly likeable vocalist. But then the group begins to experiment and turn expectations upside down.
“Love Is Smooth” is as gentle as its title. Lewis’ honey-sweet voice is crooning in the listener’s ear the way that it is recorded. It’s a deliciously tuneful contemporary country song that, again, does not prepare for the curveballs to follow. “Darkness Inside of Me” is when Lewis begins to shake the shack. This driving rocker leans toward the alternative side, exploding with nervous energy. Then there’s “Leaving is a Disease,” a full-throttle left-of-the-dial rave-up.
Eclecticism is one of the keys to the record’s success. Lewis refuses to stay within a single frame of mind, making the album wonderfully unpredictable. “Never Forsake” recalls ‘60s garage pop, especially that of ? and the Mysterians. “Dreams, Dreams,” on the other hand, is reminiscent of Pink Floyd in their introspective moments.
Website: http://andrewlewishunterband.com