Timeless Music
Donna | Los Angeles | 02/01/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Timeless music. Hunter Payne is definitely on par with the enduring singer/songwriters of the rock era--Billy Joel, Bonnie Raitt, Eric Clapton. Every tune on this CD is a solid, standalone effort. The three bonus tracks with women vocalists are a special treat, particularly Ali Handal's rendition of "Tell Me Why." This certainly isn't the "last" we'll be hearing from Hunter Payne!"
Perfect Valentine's Day Gift
Ali Handal | Los Angeles CA | 02/06/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the ultimate Valentine's Day gift for a special woman in your life (jeez, do I sound like a Hallmark card, or what?). But it is! Hunter's lyrics are sensitive and thought-provoking, and the music is extremely well played and arranged. One of the great things about Hunter's CD is that every song is carefully crafted and heartfelt--and in addition to being treated to Hunter's fantastic singing, you get to hear three other vocalists you may not be familiar with.I confess that I'm not entirely unbiased--I'm a friend of Hunter's and sang one of the songs on the CD: "Tell Me Why." I must say that after hearing the two other tracks sung by women ("Women Do Hunter"), I am tremendously honored to be sharing disc space with them! Give this disc a listen--you won't be disappointed!"
Outstanding!
www.bigindiemusic.com | Lee Center, NY | 07/07/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Hunter's CD "One Last Chance" (and it's title track) have been #1 on every major website that charts music -- and deservedly. This 13-track album resembles country, but doesn't abandon pop sensibility. The songs are more reminiscent of James Taylor and Marc Cohn than Garth Brooks and Randy Travis. Imagine the type of music James Taylor would make if he took the stage in a bar in Nashville. Each song on the CD is finely crafted and well produced in a way that shows off Hunter's impressive vocal range and acoustic guitar work. Mix in tasteful percussion, and the occasional mandolin and organ and you've got a taste of the music showcased here. One Last Chance is a very emotional record. "She Don't Know Why" speaks of the pain involved with ending a failed relationship. "I'm So Glad to Be Yours" reminds one of the joyful feelings of new love. "Private Hell" relates the tragedy of mental illness. With songs this strong it's hard to pick a standout track. In fact, my choice changes each time I listen to it. Depending on what mood I'm in, a different song will speak to me. If I absolutely had to make a choice I would select "When the Night Leaves Her Lonely," a song about a woman who has just lost her spouse. Hunter really hits the mark with this one. My hair stood on end the first time I heard it and it still affects me. One of the most entertaining aspects of "One Last Chance" is the bonus tracks. Each one was written by Hunter (two even appear previously on the album), but they're being performed by female vocalists. These tracks show just how much a different voice and slightly different arrangement can change a song. In my opinion the only thing keeping this guy off the radio may be the fact that his songs, although wonderful, may be too country for Adult Contemporary and not country enough for country radio (with the exception of "One Last Chance" which would be right at home on the Billboard Country Charts). "One Last Chance" is a great record. If you're a fan of country or folk or just good music in general you should give it a try."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1