By Ken Paulson

–Today marks a couple of important moments in the 2012 presidential race. The Democrats open their convention in Charlotte and Ian Hunter declares his own candidacy for the nation’s top office with the release of his 20^th studio album, When I’m President.

Of course, Hunter’s announcement is tongue in cheek, but the release of a new album is still welcome news. Since his days fronting Mott the Hoople, Hunter has been a vibrant and distinctive voice, with a remarkably consistent body of work.

The 73-year-old Hunter’s last two albums were very political, fueled by anger over the Bush administration. There’s more variety here, although the title track does offer some reflections of what this Brit turned Connecticut resident would do in high office: “No more bargains in the basement when I’m president.”

Hunter’s Rant Band offers full-velocity back-up worthy of the Faces on hard-driving and anthemic songs like “What For,” “Saint” and album opener “Confortable.”

Like Ray Davies, Hunter is defying our expectations about rock stars fading away. When I’m President stands with his best work. He’s not going to be elected, but long may he run.