It seems as though everyone is singing the praises of newly discovered sensation James Hunter. The comparisons to greats such as Sam Cooke and James Brown are just – although he is no imitator. Hunter is blessed with a wonderfully natural vocal, which shines when he performs his soulful Rhythm & Blues. His 2006 album People Gonna Talk” was his U.S. breakthrough, but the James Hunter story actually begins some 20 years earlier. In 1986 Hunter formed his first Rhythm & Blues band The Veejays, taking on the pseudonym Howlin’ Wilf. They were soon the heppest cats in Camden Town – popular enough to give up their day jobs and go pro!

Within a year, Howlin’ Wilf & The Veejays has cut their first album, the Boz Boorer produced ”Cry Wilf”, and had appeared on national TV courtesy of legendary music-show ”The Tube”. As the 1980s progressed, Wilf and the band issued a steady stream of vinyl, skipping from label to label including Waterfront and Un-American activities. Their popularity as a live act saw them tour throughout Europe and into the USA, until the end of 1989 when the band split. Hunter’s new-found popularity has also been marked by the 20th anniversary CD re-issue of his debut ”Cry Wilf” album (Big Beat Records CDWIKM 51) ”Ya Ya” features a full show from The Veejays 1987 UK tour.”