Album Review: Trouble

Trouble is the second album from Aotearoa contemporary soul musician Louis Baker, and was written, produced and arranged at his studio in Titahi Bay, Wellington.

Created during a period of personal change, this album quietly commands your attention with its message and content. The lyrics speak to wisdom gained through life lessons and a deep love of culture.

Baker’s musical style has been described as “slow cooked, modern soul for the people,” drawing inspiration that is rooted in timeless songwriting and blending in retro soul influences with contemporary production.

Opening track Trouble immediately draws me in with its low-down infectious groove and upbeat flute passages reminiscent of the whistling that was a feature in earlier soul songs such as Jimmy Jules’ I Should Have Listened. The dynamics of the song make my heart sing and my spirit soar. I have one word for Louis’ vocals… WOW!

 All We Need and Night Dance have a strong 70’s disco funk vibe. There’s a crossover between the style of bands such as Earth, Wind & Fire or Sister Sledge and the sound that Lionel Richie developed in the 80’s. The flawless, smooth vocals remind me of Marvin Gaye. There is also a hint of the casual-chic fashion style Marvin was fond of in the album cover artwork.

Mighty Tree has a polished overall sound combined with a funky bass line. It is a stunning tribute to a departed friend.

Late Night sets a sensuous tone during the intro, then deftly skips into an upbeat, engaging rhythm whereas Moonrise oozes sensuality throughout. There seems to be a message of hope and possibly forgiveness in lyrics such as “All the people coming home, Tomorrow is a new day, a new song.”

Flaws is another composition with outstanding dynamics. It has a catchy, funk bass line alongside some beautiful work on keys.

The last track on the recording is a collaboration between Louis and internationally acclaimed songwriter-producer Jordan Rakai called Never Give You Up Part 1. The song is spacious, melodic and deliciously sweet. It is the perfect ‘cliffhanger’ to end the album on, leaving us to look forward to part 2.