SoundClick artist: Al Baker - Lyrical and striking political folk music from the UK.

I'm Al and I play the guitar and sing some songs about things that I want to sing songs about. It's a folky style, but I like to think there's a punk-ass edge to it.

There's more stuff about me at my main website - www.albaker.co.uk and my MySpace at www.myspace.com/albaker . This is the place where I put all my songs up for free download.

Thanks for checking me out.

Why this name?

I haven't come up with a decent stage name yet...abbreviating 'Alex' to 'Al' was the best I could do for now. Talk about the creative mind.

Do you play live?

I play live as often as possible, at protests and demonstrations, in folk clubs and open mic nights, and on the street when I need a bit of spare change.

How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?

The internet is fantastic. Free music from these sort of sites (as well as the naughty naughty illegal P2P software) has, by any legitimate measurement, vastly improved the industry and allowed more music to be heard by more people than ever before.

Would you sign a record contract with a major label?

No way, my music will always be available for free somewhere - and I know for sure that no major label would agree to that. Exposure's great, but not at any cost.

Band History:

I learnt fourteen chords in one bloody-fingered weekend when I was fifteen and have carried on pretty much in the same vein ever since. I've been an active socialist since I was around 16 and most of my music's political. My particular views should be made fairly clear within around 30 seconds of any of the songs.

Your influences?

All the great riot folkers - Bobby Dylan, Billy Bragg, Phil Ochs, the new Riot Folk collective, Evan Greer, Ryan Harvey, Mark Gunnery et al, Pogues, Christy Moore and Johnny Cash. I'm also heavily influenced (in attitude if not music) by the Legends of the Clash and Joe Strummer, Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys and all other kickass punk rock.

Favorite spot?

Anywhere in the North of the UK, with the possible exception of Hull. I have alot of love for Leeds, and an ever increasing affection for Manchester.

Equipment used:

- Ani, my 6-String Blueridge acoustic guitar
- Rosa, my 12-string Yamaha acoustic guitar.
- Molly, my Bodhran
- My voice

12 fans | I'm a fan!

markallen454

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alan h

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I'm a fan!