Robert J. Hunter - Nothing But Rust

by Spencer Robertshaw

published: 22 / 9 / 2021

Label: RJ Hunter Music
Format: CD

Energetic and infectious blues rock on fifth album from British blues guitarist Robert J Hunter

Review

Blues guitarist and singer-songwriter Robert J. Hunter’s band on ‘Nothing But Rust’ are Eddie Smith (keyboards), Greg Sheffield (drums), and Joel Mayes (bass). ‘Nothing Bur Rust’ was self-produced by the band, and it was mixed and mastered at House of Tone by Wayne Proctor As many critics have picked up upon, it has overall an Americana dirty deep blues feel, but the songs show off the wide range of Hunter’s abilities - his guitar playing is first class and his voice is so right for this type of music that played through headphones whilst walking along just keeps you going for as long as your legs will let you. There is an element of the Patrick Swayze film ‘Roadhouse’ about this LP. It reminds you of the sort of the music you would hear in the Roadhouse bar with its energy and vibe. It is both infectious in its power and life-affirming. It is bloody great,. Roberts’ voice has a mix of country and rock plus a depth which goes beyond his still relatively young years. There is a touch of fire in his soul. Whilst a studio album, ‘Nothing But Rust’ has been put together with an energy which could have been a live recording, This is the fifth album from Hunter and his band and it is as solid as anything he has done to date. We have ballads, chuggers, stories, lovely blues guitar and Hunter’s immense vocal power. There isn’t a weak track here. Hunter and his band opened for Wilko Johnson, who is a master of his own technique, and one can imagine the two bands fitting together very well with the energy they both have to give. Get this album on your headphones and get out for a walk, or get it on your system and kick back with a Jack and Coke. Either way you’re in for a good time.

Track Listing:-

1 Suitcase Blues (2021 Remaster)
2 Good People (2021 Remaster)
3 Little Bit of Your Love
4 Easy Street
5 The Losing Side
6 Stir All Night
7 Kind Hearted Woman
8 Freewheelin'
9 Rolling Thunder
10 Torn Down