DCist Preview: Charlie Hunter @ Jammin' Java
The 1990s saw several young guitarists gaining notoriety, despite guitar-based music giving way to saccharine pop mid-way through the decade. These players' influence will cast a long shadow, whether it be Tom Morello's scorching riffs with Rage Against the Machine, Kurt Rosenwinkel's influential jazz work, or Derek Trucks' ascension in the jam band world. One ax man among this crop is Charlie Hunter, who has spent nearly 20 years effortlessly crossing between all these genres, becoming a bona fide guitar hero.
Hunter, who will be performing on Saturday night at Jammin' Java, is touring in support of his latest release, and 17th album as a leader, Gentlemen, I Neglected to Inform You You Will Not Be Getting Paid. The album continues in the jazz-funk vein that Hunter has made his own, but also adds some fire with a wicked horn section comprised of two trombones and trumpet.
"It's really cool because brass instruments can do stuff that reed instruments really can't," Hunter told DCist during a recent interview. "When you're playing this rhythmic kind of music that's about pocket and groove, it's nice to have instruments that can play inside the music rather than on top of it."
Like the classic jazz albums of yore, this album was also recorded in mono, all on one track and direct to tape.
"Most of the music I listen to is mono originally," said Hunter. "Rhythmically, everything is in the same exact space, everything is so punchy. Better yet, you don't have to mix it once you're done recording."
Hunter got his big break in 1992, playing with Michael Franti's Disposeable Heroes of Hiphoprosy, which landed a coveted opening slot during U2's Zoo TV Tour. The following year, he released his solo debut. In addition to his own albums, he has made numerous appearances with side projects and as a sideman, notably with Garage a Trois, D'Angelo, and T.J. Kirk. A big part of his success and influence is his unique approach to the guitar. Using custom seven and eight-string instruments, rather than the standard six-string, Hunter has developed a technique where he can play bass and melody lines simultaneously. This adds depth to his music, while allowing him to create a complete band sound with minimal personnel.
For Saturday's show, much of the material will come from the new album, but unfortunately the financial realities of the music business prevent Hunter from touring with the full quintet that's on the recording. Hunter will instead play in a trio setting, along with drummer Eric Kalb, and trombonist Curtis Fowlkes. Both recorded on Gentlemen, and are first call musicians in their own right.
Despite this change in lineup, Saturday's show should be memorable. Hunter, who has been playing around D.C. for nearly 20 years, cites Jammin' Java as his favorite local venue, and the site of his best performance in the area.
"I just hope that we make a connection with the audience," Hunter said. "I hope [the music] maybe transports them from their daily grind."
The Charlie Hunter Trio will perform at Jammin' Java on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.