When a musician cites their main influences at "Metallica and Jazz", you know they're worth checking out. Eclectic rocker Kurt Hunter changes genres like most people change socks: effortlessly. With a quirky sense of fun that is reminiscent of Jason Mraz - whom he also cites as an influence - Hunter charms with his endearing lyrics, sincere vocals and tight songwriting.

My favorite song by Hunter, "Up Too Late", is an incredibly infectious ode to insomnia with an upbeat vibe that sounds a lot like The Stray Cats. "Long Goodbyes" is a sweet, airy ballad with heavily folk sensibilities, dedicated to dreamy young lovers who just can't bear to part, while "Paper Hearts" is a solid rock ballad with a great chorus. None of these songs are like the other, but Hunter manages to pull off each style that he tries on - and I can't wait to see what's next from this quirky rocker.

Bio

Originally from Louisiana, Kurt Hunter began playing and writing songs on the guitar and piano from the age of 13. His style and tastes were largely influenced by southern rock and blues. At 18 he moved to Southern California to begin touring with a performing group called The Young Americans, which he traveled with to over 30 states, Canada, The U.K., Germany, Luxembourg, and Ukraine. After touring with the group for almost 4 years he sought to further his knowledge of music and continue to pursue his dream of becoming a professional songwriter by settling in Southern California where he began work on his first album, and performing at many local venues.

Since then Kurt has written over 70 songs and performed from Hollywood to the beaches. Kurt has also appeared on national television with a starring role as an animated character for Esurance, singing an original jingle he wrote exclusively for the company. The highly anticipated album "Up Too Late" is his latest work and marks an exciting new chapter in what no doubt will be a very promising career.