A singular yet timeless sound is just one of the qualities that defines Todd Hunter’s debut solo effort, Star. It is also an impressive array of hip alternative pop songs chronicling the descent and return to health of one of Winnipeg’s most talented songwriters. Todd and producer Mike Petkau (2009 Western Canadian Music Awards Nominee) assembled an impressive arsenal of modern and vintage studio gear to create a unique sound for the songs on Star. Realizing the songs as written already had a timeless quality, the pair decided to carefully record each song to share sonic characteristics with recognizable music from the 60’s to present day. The result is an album that is equal parts unique and nostalgic. Much like Todd’s harrowing real-life experience, the first half of Star takes left turn after left turn – giving a nod to crunchy low-fi, early 90’s bombast, dance-rock (“You Are A Star”) and new wave (“Whatever”) in the process. Mirroring Todd’s slow recovery, the album’s second half pulls heartstrings with the beautifully vocal-laden “Love Me Still” and plaintive “Lost” then calms with the peaceful “Me & You” before concluding with the classic-sounding “Sometimes” and the optimistic “Do That”. The result is an album that appeals to a wide range of listeners and is a treat for any popular music lover. To define this record in another way, Todd Hunter’s Star is an album that takes listeners back to a time when spending endless hours discovering new music in a record store was a cherished hobby. The record re-introduces sonic elements from the past, while staying true to classic pop songwriting conventions. It is also an album that means something while lovingly recalling signature sounds from the last forty years of popular music. Mastered by the legendary George Graves (U2, Peter Gabriel, Feist). Guest appearances by singer Jessee Havey (The Duhks) and pedal steel guitarist Bill Western (Nathan). All other instruments played by Todd Hunter and Mike Petkau (Les Jupes, Record Of The Week Club, The Liptonians).