Fortress Records 0506 DVD and CD

Louisiana born blues man George Baker has enjoyed 50 years with a guitar in his hands. His early career includes stints backing up The Drifters, as well as several other headliners in the southern United States. He played in the house band of the famed Apollo Theatre in the early 60s and, in 1968, became Musical Director for Marvin Gaye. After touring with Melba Moore, The Flamingos, and the Shirelles, Baker settled into the New York studio scene.

Surprisingly, Baker's musical influences were not the blues guitarists of that area but the giants of jazz guitar at the time. Charlie Christian, Wes Montgomery, and Johnny Smith were at the top of his listening list. After hearing Buddy Guy at a performance in 1985, Baker decided to take a closer look at the blues genre. A copy of Albert King's Blues at Sunrise album was all that it took to turn him in the direction that he has followed ever since.

Mojo Lady is actually Baker's first recording as a leader. The DVD includes 5 tracks performed live with his band and a television show, "'Guitar George' Baker Live from the Club at Blue Palm." There is also an interview with Baker and a historical photomontage. The opening tune, "Mojo Lady," establishes the groove with Baker's smooth voice complimented perfectly by his classic guitar backing. "Something Must Be Wrong" has a solid shuffle rhythm along with classic lyrics such as, "my future ex-wife up and left me so now I sleep real good at night."

Baker has a solid blues guitar style that is definitely his own while maintaining characteristics and phrasing of the true greats like B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughn. The material on the DVD consists of Baker originals, the lyrics in each selection telling a completely different story. His voice and overall presentation is laid-back and natural and makes for terrific listening experience.

The audio CD contains the same tracks as the DVD plus three more original selections, "I Got The Message," "Natural To The Bone," and "Trouble." Covers include a reggae version of "Johnny Be Good" and a very interesting treatment of "The House of the Rising Sun."

George Baker has put together a very solid musical presentation that takes the listener into a world of blues that is traditional, honest, and joyful. He has a terrific personality, smooth vocal talent, and the wisdom to know when to play and when not to play. The result is a truly enjoyable experience for fans of blues or anyone who loves catchy, upbeat music.