Sunday nights can represent many different things to different people.  For the avid football fan it may represent the sobering feeling of winding down after a day filled with intrigue, excitement, and close calls.  For the corporate executive, it could represent his/her last moment of freedom before returning to the daily grind of a nine to five.  For the weekend warrior it may represent the last chance to hit that club or bar that everyone has been raving about.  On a cool December night in Hollywood, it represented all of those things and more.  Nestled in the core of Universal Citywalk Hollywood, BB Kings Blues Club played host to a night where you could find all of the aforementioned individuals all coming to together to enjoy the soulful sounds of Van Hunt.

With the house lights low, drinks flowing, and the smell of barbeque filling the air, the eclectic crowd was pulsating with excitement, anticipating the arrival of Blue Note Records artist, Van Hunt.  As the BB King patrons watched a few opening acts from up close as well as the 2 tiered balcony levels, the DJ kept the party rocking in between performances with a soulful blend of hip-hop, r&b, and a few classics.  As the last opening act, Francois, was into his final song which included an amazing rendition of “Purple Rain” by his guitar player, the crowd flocked to the stage all the while knowing that Mr.Hunt was about to make an appearance.

And what an appearance he made; as he entered stage left dressed in his vintage 60’s soul-singer outfit fully equipped with the scarf tied to the front.  The scene was set for the audience to experience a few “Seconds Of Pleasure.”  For those in attendance, Van Hunt didn’t disappoint. Obviously a gifted musician, Van Hunt cleverly displayed his talents on the guitar as well as a vocal range that mirrors the likes of a modern day Curtis Mayfield.  With a set that included songs from his debut album, Van Hunt, his second album, On The Jungle Floor, and several new joints off his EP, Popular Machine, he seduced the audience with sultry melodies and harmonies that would soothe the most savage beast.  Under the “Hot Stage Lights,” Van Hunt displayed a musical poise that is seldom seen in a live performance.  There wasn’t any jumping around, crazy dance moves, or pyrotechnics, but there was a feeling of brilliance and a mood created by the artist that kept the people intrigued from start to finish.

Sunday nights are often synonymous with the ending of an adventure while simultaneously symbolizing the return of the daily routine.  Well, on this particular Sunday night in Hollywood, Van Hunt was far from the routine.  He gave a new meaning to the evening for all of us by making us realize that the “Night Is Young.”  As the night continued into the morning, Van Hunt made it a lot easier for everyone to return to their respective “Popular Machine” on Monday morning.