Alexia Morton
Connector Contributor

Local band Hunter has burst onto the scene with their self-produced album “Hunter.” This four-piece alternative rock band, headed by front woman Hunter Stamas, brings a soulful sound to the alternative rock genre with their folk and indie-inspired instrumentals. Strong vocals and clever lyrics come together to create an energetic, upbeat album that is as charismatic as it is catchy.

The self-titled album consists of 10 original songs, including Hunter’s single, “Smooth Seas Never Made for a Skilled Sailor.” This song, along with several other tracks on the album, shows strong connections to the sea. Tied together with the strong sounds of the harmonica, this upbeat song is reminiscent of Vance Joy, Stamas offers an alluring twang with her vocals that is both joyous and magnetic.

Other songs on the album include “Que Sera, Sera” which reminds listeners that “what will be, will be.” This track, which just passes the four-minute mark, highlights the distinct sound and powerful voice Hunter is bringing to the alternative rock scene. “Before You Go, Stay” is an upbeat, charismatic song that looks into the complexities of relationships through smart lyrics and humorous undertones.

The song “Something Real” gives off a Lana Del Rey-inspired vibe, which may prompt you to bring out your inner diva, while the lyrics, “I won’t be put aside, cause we know I’m no basic bitch,” seem to reflect the strong-willed attitude of singer Stamas.

Their song, “Rolling Thunder,” marks the halfway point in the album, which has consisted of energetic, upbeat music and lyrics. This track seems to be the peak of upbeat instrumentals, reminiscent of Dexys Midnight Runners hit song “Come On Eileen.” The lyrics, “today I saw the sun, I’ve been livin’ in the dark for too long,” seem to imply a sense of finding the light in the darkness with the help of cheerful optimism.

Looking to the second half of the album, “You’ve Gotta Play The Game To Beat The Game” is slower than the previous tracks, offering deeper, more contemplative lyrics to reflect on. With the essence of a Blue October song, “I am fixing what I lack. I am picking up my slack. I am kicking my own ass. I am cleaning up my act,” suggests a sort of self-empowerment in contrast to Blue October’s self-loathing lyrics.

One of the shorter tracks on the album, “BBB” picks up the tempo with a realistic and relatable song about love. The not-so-typical love song delves into the fears of romantic relationships and brings them to light. The lyrics, “to know that I could lose ya when we holler and we shout,” show a less than ideal view of love that is very raw and very real. With contrasting upbeat instrumentals and deeply emotional lyrics, this track is one of the highlights of the album.

While the songs on the album are original, it is clear that the music and lyrics were influenced by many artists and inspirations. Borrowing their title from Pink Floyd’s instrumental song, “Any Colour You Like,” from the album “Dark Side of the Moon,” Hunter points out these influences in their song “Colour.” They make another nod to the iconic band in their lyrics, “I want to stay here on the dark side of the moon, where you can pick or choose, don’t make me go,” while still maintaining their distinct sound.

The last two tracks on the album are full of strong emotions and equally strong vocals. With a smart mouth and cheeky charm, Stamas’ lyrics, “what’s yours is mine and what’s mine is mine. I don’t share my things, I don’t share my time,” offer subtle humor to the more serious suggestions in the song “Fountain of You(th).” The last track on the album, “Vagabond,” calls listeners to live in the moment. The lyrics, “the future’s now—get up and ready. Life is loud, it’s getting heavy,” seems to be a call to action; a sort of carpe diem. Through an upbeat tempo, strong vocals and powerful lyrics, the sense of freedom and possibility seems endless. And while listeners are called to look towards the future and not into the past, they may find themselves going back to the first track and listening to this album on repeat.

To stream Hunter’s new album:
“Hunter” is for free or can be downloaded for a minimal fee: visit www.hunterstamas.bandcamp.com. There, people will also find links to their social media accounts where they can stay up-to-date with the band and get more information about upcoming shows.