by Scott Yanow Closely inspired by David Sanborn (who he often sounds like on alto), Chris Hunter is best known in the U.S. for his work with Gil Evans. He started playing music when he was 12, and toured with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra at 19. After playing with Mike Westbrook (1978-1979), Hunter became a studio musician in Europe. He first played with Evans in 1983, which led to him moving to New York. In 1984, he toured with Evans, played with the Michel Camilo sextet, and began working with Mike Gibbs. He went on to record as a leader for Atlantic and the Japanese Paddle Wheel label.