With each record made, the case for Sam Baker being held in
the same esteem as many legendary Texan songwriters strengthens. It has been
mooted that the creative spark for many writers in this part of the world is
borne out of a necessity to see past the often barren landscape but for Sam
much of his inspiration comes from being given a second chance of life after
surviving a Peruvian train bombing in 1986. Either way SAY GRACE is a
continuation of the highly acclaimed work to come from Sam who has recorded
three previous albums on a regular basis since 2004.
Sam Baker is a stimulating and gifted songwriter who was destined
to share his thoughts with the world via song. Although ultimately words define
his artistry as they perhaps leave the lasting impression, several listens to
this album will draw you to the musical arrangements that create an
experimental sound within the confines of a relaxed ambience. Also the monologue
vocal style of Sam is ingrained with the earthiness shaped by the weathering of
life.
A comprehensive list of musicians including Gurf Morlix,
Carrie Elkin and Anthony Da Costa have been assembled to assist Sam in the
recording of the fourteen tracks which includes a short instrumental introduction
to ‘Feast’ and a longer piano and
violin led instrumental interlude. These restful parts act as a re-energising segment
of the album which, while being thoughtful and astute, is an intense listening
experience.
While a majority of the album’s tracks are straight from the
pen of Sam Baker, he is not afraid to delve into sources such as a French
medieval folk melody for parts of the interlude and ‘The Tattooed Woman’. Also ‘Sweet
Hour of Prayer’ has its origins in the first half of the nineteenth century
while ‘Go in Peace’, a co-write with
Liz Rose is inspired by an eighteenth century hymn.
As is common in much of Texas music, a south of the border
sound filters in with the accordion of Joel Guzman featuring in ‘Migrants’, a track that skirts the
Mexican border very much in the same mould as Tom Russell. When recalling Texas
songwriters, the vocal similarity to James McMurtry surfaces on several
occasions as does a slight resemblance to Ray Wylie Hubbard while many of the
songs have a deep substance to them very reminiscent of the work of Slaid
Cleaves. However despite these name checks, Sam Baker is his own man and the uniqueness
lies within his ability to arrange the captivating songs using diverse sounds
such as piano, pedal steel, brass and cello. Click here to see some of Sam's videos