> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.emptyspaces.co.nz/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Louis Baker puts heart and soul into a record that deserves your full attention - URL: https://www.emptyspaces.co.nz/louis-baker-puts-heart-and-soul-into-a-record-that-deserves-your-full-attention/ - Published: 2026-11-03T18:34:31.000Z - Updated: 2026-11-03T18:34:31.000Z - Author: Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo - Tags: Review *Trouble* is an album written, sung and produced by Louis Baker himself from his studio in Titahi Bay, with fellow creatives and musicians helping bring his vision to life through instrumentation, production and artwork. It’s a project that wears its independence proudly, balancing standout tracks with quieter moments that let it breathe. Drawing on influences like Marvin Gaye, Gil Scott-Heron and Michael Kiwanuka, Baker shows his love for both old and new sounds. There’s a quiet confidence running through the album, with live collaborations bringing its stories to life on the current tour. *Trouble* opens the album as Baker’s standout track and most recognisable hit. I first played it in the car on the way to work, arguably the best place to soak in its infectious bassline and flute section while the morning sun forces your eyes open. Lyrically, it explores everyday worries and the search for love as a source of relief. *All We Need* is probably my personal favourite. It’s got an upbeat groove, tasty guitar licks and a full-bodied blend of instrumentation that gives it plenty of depth. Beneath the feel-good energy is a message about life’s uncertainties and the strength we find in each other. Connection is arguably our best bet at tackling adversity, and I love how this track celebrates that. *Mighty Tree* is another wondrous tune, paying tribute to the loss of a deeply loved soul. Death can hit like a mighty tree falling, and I think it’s a beautiful metaphor to explore in a song. I found myself caught between references to a musical legacy and the imagery of a forest, especially when taking the lyrics literally. You have to read between the lines to understand what Baker is getting at, and that’s part of what makes the song so well-crafted and elusive. *Late Night* feels deeply connected to displacement, at least in my interpretation. Although I don’t know the exact context, my mind goes straight to displacement caused by war, a topic that feels particularly pressing in our modern world. Glorious keys soften the blow, but a lingering sadness remains, leaving you in sullen introspection. *Golden Days* is a hearty little tune with stunning guitar moments. Its energy feels distinctly beachside, bringing to mind a dimly lit bar on a warm summer evening, the doors open to let the sea breeze roll through. I can picture it just as easily in a rustic record store or at a late-night jam in your local jazz loft. *Flaws* flows on nicely, with a punchy bassline and warm lyrics about unconditional love and acceptance. There can’t be a better feeling than being loved for who you are, despite the things we struggle to love about ourselves. *Night Dance* brings an old-school disco feel, keeping the groove alive and the album moving, before *Moonrise* takes things down a notch with gorgeous backing vocals and swaying drums. It feels almost like a lullaby, carrying us out of winter and into spring just as Baker takes the album on tour. *Never Give You Up (Pt. 1)* closes things on a high note, delivered with poise and deep gratitude for music and friendship. Ultimately, *Trouble* feels like a reminder of the beauty in life’s highs and lows, and the connections that help carry us through them. Louis Baker’s ingenuity and heart make this a record you’d be silly to miss. Rooted in genuine life experience, personal perspective and a deep love of music, it feels timeless while remaining distinctly his own. I’d happily return to this album, and urge listeners to give it the space it deserves. [Trouble by Louis Baker](https://louisbaker.bandcamp.com/album/trouble?ref=emptyspaces.co.nz) ****Promoting new music or events? Get priority submissions for editorial consideration.** [Subscribe ](https://www.emptyspaces.co.nz/#/portal/signup)