Sam Baker

Sam Baker comparisons have included Townes Van Zandt, Randy Newman and even Lou Reed. But a better comparison might be that of Raymond Carver. Baker's pen is precise, cunning and original, often weaving humour with human suffering and tender beauty.

Baker approaches life with a positive attitude - "Life is a gift. I went through a lot of bitterness- a lot of anger. But those things are toxic. Gratitude for what remains is more helpful than resentment for what was lost. Ultimately, I came to understand that these days are wicked short and terribly beautiful. All I've got - no matter what I hold in my hands, drive around in, or put in the bank, - all I've got is this one breath, and if I'm lucky, I get another."

say grace, his newest collection, was released in the summer of 2013.