Louis Baker Releases Full-Length Album ‘Trouble’

9 October 2026

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Following more than a decade at the forefront of Aotearoa’s contemporary soul scene, critically acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, Louis Baker, cements his past accolades with the release of his already acclaimed, second studio album, Trouble. The first three singles off the album have already surpassed 1.2 million streams, with much more to come.

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Across nine songs, Trouble unfolds as Baker’s most assured work to date. Taking shape during a time of personal growth, it balances social observation with reflections on love, resilience and the work of confronting himself.

Written, produced and arranged by Baker across 2024 and 2025 from his studio in Titahi Bay, Wellington, Trouble is rooted in timeless songwriting, blending retro-soul influences with contemporary production. Warm analogue textures, expressive guitar work, lush strings, Wurlitzer keyboards, and understated, head-nod grooves sit beneath Baker’s rich, emotionally resonant vocals to create a sound that is organic, expansive and unmistakably Louis Baker.

The album includes contributions from some of Te Whanganui-a-Tara’s most respected musicians including Cory Champion, Louisa Williamson, Rikki Gooch, James Illingworth, Johnny Lawrence, Iris Little, Leo Coghini and Tristan Carter. The album was mixed by award winning producer Ben Lawson (Tom Scott) and mastered by Josh Llewellyn at Downbeat Mastering.

“I really enjoyed making this album. Trouble encapsulates the highs and lows: the grief of losing loved ones and friends, the love of community, social consciousness, knowledge of self, hope, gratitude and passion for the craft.” says Baker.

Trouble builds on the momentum of three singles released throughout 2026. The first single All We Need offered a message of compassion and togetherness, the groove-driven title track Trouble confronted his own internal struggles, while Mighty Tree a moving tribute to a departed friend who has left a lasting mark on those around him was inspired by the whakataukī “Kua hinga te tōtara i te wao nui a Tāne.” Together, the three singles revealed the emotional and musical breadth of an album that now arrives in full.

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Throughout the record songs such as Late Night reflect on the human cost of war and displacement, and Golden Days celebrates creative independence and staying true to your craft, the album never loses its sense of warmth or joy. Night Dance lifts the mood with an irresistible disco-soul groove and a simple reminder that everything is going to be alright, while Flaws and Moonrise embrace vulnerability, renewal and optimism that runs through the heart of the record.

Closing the album is Never Give You Up (Pt.1), a collaboration with internationally acclaimed songwriter/producer and friend Jordan Rakei, brings the record to a quiet, unresolved conclusion that hints at what lies beyond.

To celebrate, Baker will embark on a 9-date nationwide tour across Aotearoa throughout October and November. Performing both intimate solo shows in the South Island plus a string of shows with the band in Christchurch and across the North Island, culminating in a hometown show at Meow Nui, Wellington. Marking his first headline shows since 2021, the tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Baker in his own headline setting.

Louis Baker Trouble Album Release Tour Dates:

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