Kelli Baker: Granite Review

I always count it a privilege to listen to and review music from artists I have not previously been exposed to. Usually, it is a pleasurable experience, and the opportunity to hear Kelli Baker’s brand-new debut EP, Granite, reminds me why I enjoy what I do. Recorded at VUDU Studios for Gulf Coast Records, this release has me eager to learn more about her and her music. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Baker moved to New York City in 2012. Her venture into music began in church, where many other strong musical foundations have been planted for successful artists.

After arriving in New York, she became involved in the local blues scene and continues to perform music described as blues-rock and soul. Her songwriting often draws from personal experiences, which is where most great songs originate. Baker cites influences such as Bonnie Raitt, Chris Cornell, Susan Tedeschi, and Aretha Franklin. She has also begun stacking up awards and achievements in the blues genre, including winning the 2024 615 Blues Revival Competition in Nashville and the Long Island/Brooklyn/Queens division of the International Blues Challenge. She has also been featured in several magazine publications. Kelli Baker regularly performs with bluesman Mike Zito and recently toured with Christone “Kingfish” Ingram.

Granite consists of seven songs, four of which were written by Kelli Baker. She also included a Mike Zito song, an Allman Brothers cover, and a traditional folk tune. Two originals, “Silk Flowers” (which also has an official video) and “Granite,” have been released as singles. Italian musician Noe Socha contributes great guitar and harmonica work, while Tom Curiano handles drums. “Right On Time,” the second track on the album, is a bluesy, sultry tune that features funky, fiery guitar playing alongside Baker’s soulful vocals. She sings, “It’s been a dark, dark morning. It’s been a dark, dark day,” and “You’re always right on time.” “Love in the Sheetz,” the upbeat Mike Zito tune, is another highlight. Baker delivers it with enthusiasm: “All I need is something sweet. All I need, I need is love in the Sheetz.” It’s a fun, lighthearted song full of imagery. You can find almost anything in a Sheetz, so is it hard to imagine finding love there, too? I think not. The final song on Granite is a cover of the classic Allman Brothers Band tune “Whipping Post.” Maybe it’s my love for nearly anything by the Allman Brothers that makes this my favorite cut on the EP, but I’m convinced it’s also due to the fine job Baker and her band do putting their own spin on this timeless song.

All seven tracks on Granite are enjoyable, and there’s no doubt that Kelli Baker has a huge, electrifying voice. I usually seek out live video performances of artists I review if I haven’t personally seen them perform, and I did that for this artist. If you enjoy what you hear on this EP, you’ll really enjoy seeing and hearing her live. She’s currently on the road touring into early 2026. It will be exciting to see what comes next from Kelli Baker.

The Review: 8/10

Can’t Miss Track

– Right On Time
– Love In The Sheetz
– Whipping Post

The Big Hit

– Love In The Sheetz