Hunters & Collectors

Every track on H&C's Cut album is brimming with high energy, explosive singing, and contagious hooks, making it one of this band's finest offerings. From the desperate sounding "Head Above Water" to the marching rhythm of "Holy Grail," a certain electricity is mustered from Mark Seymour's charged voice. Grinding guitar work coupled with the extensive flare of trumpets and a French horn set this band apart from other groups, offering a rough but flamboyant edge to their music. Like most Australian bands, Hunters & Collectors sustain a different sound than bands from Europe or the U.S., and it's this intangible contrast that gives them such an unrivaled flare. The bleakness in some of their songs is elevated by the instruments so that the conceptual message is understood, without the dismalness, making their music accessible both lyrically and musically. Some songs on this album harbor a slight whine from Seymour, but listeners soon get well accustomed to his style and welcome his honest wailing, as it sets a precedent for the music. Some of the best work from this group is spread across this 1992 release. ~ Mike DeGagne, All Music Guide