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Reviews

Leslie Hunt — Ascend
((Not on label) no#, 2021, CD)

by Jon Davis, Published 2021-09-16

Ascend Cover art There are at least two different ways to approach Leslie Hunt’s new release. If you’re a fan of District 97 (or are at least familiar with the band) you’ll see it as a solo album by the lead singer; on the other hand, Leslie Hunt began putting out albums before she joined District 97, so there are likely some listeners who regard District 97 as a band that she joined. I’m in the former camp since I’ve not heard any of her previous solo releases, but I’m not a huge D97 fan, so I’m fine regarding her as an artist in her own right. Ascend is the work of a seasoned and talented singer-songwriter, with excellent tunes skillfully performed and produced. Stylistically, it’s a pleasing variety of folk-inflected rock fronted by a powerful voice, though many of the tunes feature less intensity, with intimate delivery that highlights the lyrics. And I have to mention that her voice at times reminds me strongly of Aimee Mann — not a bad thing in my book at all. Every song is a winner, and each has its own charms. Hunt sings and plays acoustic guitar and piano; she’s backed by a band of people I’m not familiar with — Brian Doherty (bass), Michael Caskey (drums), Matt Gold (guitar), Stuart Mindeman (keyboards), Lloyd Snyder (guitar), and Christian Cullen (a whole bunch of keyboards, guitars, and other stuff). Ascend fits comfortably next to quality releases by such artists as Aimee Mann, Jann Arden, Sarah McLachlan, Sam Phillips, Chantal Kreviazuk, and others. My only complaint is that it’s less than 25 minutes in length, and I could easily enjoy a full-length album of material this good.

Filed under: New releases, 2021 releases

Related artist(s): Leslie Hunt

More info
http://www.lesliehuntmusic.com/shop/p/ascend

 

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