Remarkably, this is my 20th time reviewing Kurt Baker (not counting at least a dozen more write-ups on other releases he has played or sung on) over the last ten years plus. He certainly rates as one of this blog's most longstanding favorite artists, and I would argue that his brand-new single "Secrets" is one of the best tracks he has ever put his name on. What I dig about "Secrets" (out now on Wicked Cool Records) is that it sounds like a radio hit. It has the feel of a true single and not just a random track that has turned up online. It was originally conceived by Baker and co-author Kris Rodgers as a '90s-style pop song called "Two To Groove." But once Baker met up with his pal Jeff Beam to record the guitars for the track, the song was immediately transformed. Lyrics were re-written, the title was changed, and Baker found himself in the familiar territory of melodic guitar pop. You can still hear a little of the song's original vibe, but the warm, upbeat feel of "Secrets" strikes me as very '60s/'70s. Baker plays a nifty James Jamerson-inspired bass line, Rodgers works his usual magic on the organ, and Beam is as smooth as silk on guitar. I'm always a sucker for an optimistic love song, and I'm especially feeling this one. That hook is pure gold! And how about those harmony vocals? Summer is in the air, and "Secrets" seems tailor-made for the season. It's one of those songs that makes you feel good about being alive. With Rodgers and Beam, Baker has written a song that's unique in his catalog yet certain to please longtime fans. It's the epitome of perfect pop!
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