Inspired by artists such as Ryan Adams and Pete Yorn, Baker began writing his own brand of roots rock around the turn of the century, when his deep baritone made quite the impression on listeners in the California area. After releasing his first demo in 2001, he managed to gain fans in friends like Counting Crows drummer Steve Bowman and Mazzy Star bassist Paul Olguin. Teaming up with them to record his debut record, Slim spent the following months writing and recording, and he won the John Lennon Songwriting Contest during this period as well. Using the prize money to finish the recordings, Interstate Medicine became his national debut upon its release in 2002. ~ Bradley Torreano