Rock ‘N’ Roll Club is the second best title for the latest Kurt Baker release. An even better title would be Rock ‘N’ Roll Debate Club, because Baker takes us along so many substrains of rock’n’roll, it is almost like he wants listeners to discuss whether his songs still fit the label. It’s a sign of an artist brimming with confidence about his musical skill and freed of the straightjacket of genre expectations. On his new record, Baker goes from ’80s arena rock (Hittin’ Rock Bottom) to glammy party stomper (Go Getter), and from ’80s new wave pop (Good Feeling) to Oasis worship (It Was You). Baker even makes a sidestep into the world of disco with Love Express, which is probably my least favorite song on the record. It’s not like I hate it though. Besides, it is offset by the power pop perfection of Missed Connection and Anchors Up.
In an insightful interview at Sweet Sweet Music blog, Kurt Baker talks about the wealth of song ideas he had for his new album and how Little Steven helped pick out the most promising ones to develop further. And develop, Baker did! There are no ugly ducklings on Rock ‘N’ Roll Club. Joe Jackson and Elvis Costello will nod in approval to the songs Baker penned for the record. Buy it now at Wicked Cool Records.
Add to wantlist: Bandcamp
Pingback: New album: Brad Marino || Grin And Bear It - Add To Wantlist