Legendary drummer Ginger Baker has released the jazzy tune "Why?," the title track from his upcoming album. This is the first LP the drummer has recorded in 16 years and will be available on June 24th. You can stream the song above.
Ginger Baker got his career started as a jazz drummer in the early 60's in the U.K and performed with Graham Bond Organisation. Eventually, he joined up with Eric Clapton in bands such as Cream and Blind Faith, which changed his style to a rock and roll sound. It should come as no surprise that "Why?" has a heavy jazz sound instead of rock. The New Orleans flavored drum beat serves as the backbone of the song, similar to what he provided in Blind Faith's "Do What Ya Like." A minute into the tune, he loosens up and begins to play drum fills as a saxophone improvises over him in two segments throughout the song. The African American spiritual song "Wade In The Water" has a melody that seems to be another slight influence in this new tune. The only time lyrics show up is during three song breaks in which voices ask, "Why?"
The album is currently available for pre-order at iTunes. Ginger Baker will be on a North American tour during the month of June in support of the album. You can find additional information on his official website.
Source: Rolling Stone SoundCloud
