If you’ve ever been lucky enough to spend time in NZ’s capital, Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara, then you’ve likely discovered just how mighty and diverse is the creative culture that dwells within the city and surrounds. It’s a place that punches well above its weight given its relatively small size, and there’s no shortage of powerhouse artists, musically and otherwise.
It’s about 15 years or so since I first met Louis Baker there, way back in the early stages of his career, as he was working the gig scene locally and building a loyal following from the start. He was already a standout then, with his velvety vocals and clever musicianship, and it was pretty clear that he was one to watch.
Today he has released his second studio album, Trouble, which features nine tracks, all written, produced, and engineered by Baker from his studio in Titahi Bay, a beautiful coastal suburb just north of the Wellington CBD. The album is a journey through the experience of self-examination as a result of factors such as grief and social consciousness, as well as an awakening about personal lifestyle choices and the need to make changes.
It’s near-impossible to pick a favourite track from this bevy of beautiful tunes, but it’s hard to go past “All We Need”, with its message of compassion and hope underpinned by a snappy, groovy percussive vibe which supports the gentle undulations of Baker’s vocals. Another favourite is the hauntingly beautiful “Mighty Tree”, in which Baker mourns the loss of a dear friend. The title is drawn from the Māori proverb ‘Kua hinga te tōtara o Te Waonui a Tāne’, meaning a mighty tree (tōtara) has fallen in the forest of Tāne, signifying the significance and high standing in the community of that person.
Rich with collaborations with some of Wellington’s finest musicians throughout, including Cory Champion, Riki Gooch, and James Illingworth, amongst other amazing names, this album is one you feel to the soles of your feet. It’s a long exhale, a summer breeze, and a darkened jazz bar all in one. It’s distinctly Wellington, yet deeply international. His voice wraps your soul in the warmest of embraces and fills you with joy. Trouble is a wonderfully refined, elegantly crafted celebration of Louis Baker’s creative maturity and personal reflections.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
Louis Baker is touring NZ in October and November, with Australian dates to be announced. Tickets and the album are available here.
15 October – Pearl Diver, Dunedin *solo
16 October – Sherwood, Queenstown *solo
17 October – Rhyme X Reason, Wānaka *solo
22 October – Paisley Stage, Napier
23 October – Totara St, Mount Maunganui
29 October – Double Whammy, Auckland
30 October – Loons, Christchurch
31 October – Meow Nui, Wellington
06 November – Taranaki Arts Festival
Photo credit: Ashley Alexander
