When hearing about a “family band,” someone over the age of 40 is likely to think about The Partridge Family, The Jackson Five or The Osmonds. For someone younger, they may have a different concept of what a family band is, given the success of Echosmith, Haim or Eisley in the recent past.
The Hunts – who have little in common stylistically with the aforementioned Echosmith, Haim or Eisley – consist of seven siblings. Based in Chesapeake, Virginia, the group earned a publishing deal with Songs Music Publishing before signing a six-album major label deal with Interscope subsidiary Cherrytree Records. While all seven siblings are said to have started on the violin, The Hunts’ sound can aptly be described as “folk-pop.”
In support of the latest album by The Hunts, “Those Younger Days,” the group is appearing at Joe’s Pub on June 23rd. Jessi Hunt answered some questions for me over e-mail.
How would you describe The Hunts to someone who hasn’t yet heard the band?
The Hunts’ Jessi Hunt: We would describe the Hunts’ music as; indie-folk, joyful acoustic, nostalgic story telling, layers of stringed instruments with brother and sister harmonies.
When people throw around the “family band” tag, keeping in mind that Echosmith and Eisley were both “family bands,” how does that make you feel?
J: The “family band” label definitely has its pros and cons. Sometimes it can immediately paint a cheesy picture in someone’s mind (laughs), but on the other hand, we think there is something so beautiful about family creating music together. There’s nothing quite as special as the bond between siblings. We love being in a band together! We’re each others best friends and most trusted musical comrades.
What’s the most difficult part of having seven people in your band? Having everyone fit on-stage?
J: Ha, yes! Fitting seven people and all their instruments on the stage is definitely a challenge sometimes! Good thing we’re used to being up close! During songwriting sessions, it can often be difficult to get seven strong-willed opinions to reach a unanimous decision. But at the same time, we also agree that because of having seven very involved and opinionated song-writers, our songs become that much better! The very difficulties we face are actually valuable attributes!
If at all, how has life changed since signing to Cherrytree?
J: Signing with Cherrytree has definitely been a different season of life for us! We’re thankful for the many new opportunities and doors that have opened for us because of their support! Cherrytree introduced us to Chris Kuffner who produced our brand new album “Those Younger Days.” We love the people over at Cherrytree Records and feel like this journey has only just begun with them!
Do you personally have any goals for the band?
J: Honestly, we simply just love playing, writing, touring and sharing our music with the world! We’re taking one season at a time and enjoying the ride! A personal goal we have in our song writing is to create music that moves people’s hearts. If our music can move someone to dance, or cry, or fill their heart with joy, peace or imagination, then we’ll be happy!
Might we ever see electric instrumentation come into The Hunts?
J: We’re always up for trying new sounds and new instruments, so it’s very possible that one day some electric instruments might be added!
What’s to be expected from your upcoming gig at Joe’s Pub?
J: We’re excited to come play at Joe’s Pub! It will be our first time there. We’ll be playing songs off our new album “Those Younger Days.” One can expect to see the seven Hunt siblings hand off stringed instruments to one another while listening to the melodies and stories from our childhood. We’re planning on plenty of foot-stomping, clapping and dancing!
If all went as planned with the release of “Those Younger Days,” what do the next few years look like for The Hunts? Any side or solo projects?
J: The next few years for The Hunts….hmm…we’re looking forward to continue touring this amazing country and working hard on the six-album record deal that we signed with Cherrytree Records! Our minds are full of side project ideas! Music videos, solo songwriting, etc.
Finally, any last words for the kids?
J: Check out our brand new album on iTunes & our summer tour schedule at www.thehuntsmusic.com.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
