Having played an influential part in the house and techno scene for the better part of the last decade, Simon Baker has made a name for himself as one of the UK’s most respected producers, and now present’s his highly anticipated debut album “Traces”.

Acclaimed singles released through pioneering labels such as Playhouse, Get Physical, Cocoon and of course 2020Vision, and constantly traveling the globe playing at the best clubs in the world have continually honed Simon’s sound to the classic sounding, richly produced electronic house music that makes up his debut album.

The clamor for his debut artist album has grown steadily over the past few years and, in March 2011, the long player ‘Traces’ will be released on his home label.
“I do things when they feel right naturally. I feel now is my time” said Simon of the upcoming release, “I have the experience now to put an album together that isn't just straight club tracks. I wanted it to represent me, my years in this music and show my more musical side. This shows in the direction I have taken in the album.”
The album effortlessly balances Simon’s trademark club tracks with a more musical, refined sound that has been developing steadily over his past releases. Grey Area has been one of the stand out tracks of his dj sets for months, and is just one of the album tracks which is equally suited for basement parties and Space terrace as it is as part of the album experience. The two collaborations featuring vocals from new finding Debukas, No Pressure and Let Me In punctuate the album perfectly and provide a classic soulful edge, as does Someone Like with its superb, uplifting pianos, these tracks prove Simon is now capable of working with musicians to fulfill the widescreen visions of his music.
“I take inspiration from all kinds of sources whether it be music, people, or subject matter around me,” explains Simon of his approach to the album, “It's music from within rather than what might necessarily work on the dance floor.”
He also knows when a more delicate touch is called for and tracks like Reversal and Think! sit perfectly on the album as house music more fitting for headphones than dancefloors and follow in a rich tradition of the deep, soulful electronic music 2020Viosion is renowned for.
It’s good to see Simon has avoided the usual pitfalls of the debut album for the dj/producer, there are no downtempo excursions, no guest list of big name vocalists and thankfully no soundtrack for an imaginary film. He’s kept to his trademark 4/4 house music pulse, although it comes in many moods and flavours that make it a true album listening experience.