Ernie Halter
Congress Hotel
Rock Ridge
Ernie Halter’s Congress Hotel is a superb blend of jazzy soul and pop with the sort of quality songwriting, musicianship and production rarely seen in independent releases.
The sheer enthusiasm and passion that Halter demonstrates throughout this record is hard to resist, and when it’s coupled with infectious material like the brilliant opener “One You Need,” liking this record becomes a no-brainer.
People may accuse Halter of being derivative of artists like Gavin DeGraw, Maroon 5 and Marc Broussard, but there’s definitely room at the table for an artist as talented as this. The delicate strains of “Love In LA” are the perfect accompaniment to a laid-back Sunday morning, while “Into This Life” and “Melissa” are further examples of Halter’s flawless songwriting.
Congress Hotel is definitely worth checking into; it’s polished and professional with more than a little bit of soul.
Ernie Halter: http://www.erniehalter.com
