After releasing
Natty Dread,
Charlie Hunter decided to form a new band, one without horns. The ensuing Pound For Pound features
Hunter with a drummer, synthesizers, and vibraphonist
Stefon Harris. Removing the horns puts
Hunter's guitar in the spotlight, and he rises to the occasion, fulfilling the promise he's displayed on all of his previous releases. There's a stronger groove here than on any of
Hunter's previous records, but what's remarkable about the album is the way he keeps the groove rolling while pushing the music into unpredictable, adventurous territory. That fusion of groove and challenging jazz makes
Return of the Candyman a thoroughly rewarding listen. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine