“Oh Lover Man, where can you be…..?” pours out of Chet Baker’s trumpet like sweet honey. His beautiful lyrical interpretation can’t help but keep the listener hooked to the emotional content of this song, making it a favourite of mine. I also love the pulsing back beat which makes it swing in the same way a slow hip hop jam might. Calm, cool and collected this track simmers and sets itself apart from the other fantastic versions played and sung by other jazz masters. Somehow Chet Baker’s version speaks to me, it is full of longing and exquisite peace at the same time.
There is a bit of buzz surrounding Baker as the new biopic starring Ethan Hawke is rolling through film festivals now. Hopefully this will highlight Chet Baker’s legacy and create more appreciation for the man and his music.
Brought to you by Coastal Jazz.
