The Hunter

In 1984, the world still waited for ringmaster Tom Scholz to finish Boston's third record. During "All Those Years," Boston guitarist Barry Goudreau recorded a solo LP with other limbo members and hooked up with vocalist Fran Cosmo. Choosing not to wait any longer for Scholz, Goudreau brought bassist Bruce Smith and Heart beat-man Michael DeRosier on board for the one-off Orion the Hunter. Naturally, this debut doesn't stack up to the perfect Boston, but "Fast Talk," "Dreamin'," and "I Call It Love" are good, professional rock tunes. Maybe too professional, as they come off a bit cold. Plus, like too many '80s releases, Orion the Hunter is badly dated, though Razor & Tie cleaned up the CD reissue nicely (unfortunately losing the a cappella opening of "So You Ran" on the preceding cut). "So You Ran" made the radio, a testament to the enduring popularity and influence of AOR kings Boston, as this song would never cross the airwaves in this day and age. Cosmo brings a fresh voice to standard proceedings and Boston virtuoso vox-man Brad Delp is not listed as a member, but holds a strong presence over Orion the Hunter. "Too Much in Love" is excellent, actually based around keys rather than falling victim. But honestly, even though Orion the Hunter holds some personal nostalgia, too many albums deserve more attention. — Doug Stone.