Brian Baker: "The Road"

Seminal punk guitarist Brian Baker reveals his fixations and fascinations in a beautiful collection of photographs from the road.

The Road is an illuminating selection of photographs spanning iconic punk rock guitarist Brian Baker’s many years of global touring with Bad Religion, Dag Nasty, and other bands. The images are intelligent and arresting, reflecting time spent both inside and outside the bubble of backstages and tour buses.

While touring is easily glamorized, all traveling musicians know that twenty-two hours of every day lack the lights, glitter, and other rock-and-roll trappings. For Baker, some of that time is spent photographing what interests him most in his surroundings. As revealed in The Road, his fascinations range from bizarre highway signage; to unsettling figurines, mannequins, and statuettes; to religious iconography that carries extra weight when one considers the ethos of a band called Bad Religion; to steaming cups of espresso and classic diner meals; to guitars, guitars, and more guitars; and so much more.

The Road is designed in collaboration with award-winning photographer and curator Jennifer Sakai. Music lovers across the globe will revel in a Brian Baker’s–eye view of the landscapes he inhabits, and gain insight into the sometimes disquieting and always beautiful imagery that seizes his attention and engages his obsessions.

Brian Baker will be joined in conversation by Tony Pence, founder and owner of Celebrated Summer Records.

About the Author:

Brian Baker is a punk rock icon who grew up in Washington, DC. Hailed in a 2024 Alternative Press fan poll as one the five greatest punk guitarists of all time, he has been a pioneer of multiple styles and continues to influence and inspire new generations of listeners and players. Baker is most widely recognized for his significant contributions with legendary bands Minor Threat, Bad Religion, and Dag Nasty. He lives in Neptune, New Jersey.

About the Moderator:

Tony Pence is the founder and owner of Celebrated Summer Records, which he established in 2006. A native of Baltimore, he has spent most of his adult life heavily involved in the city's punk and hardcore scenes—playing in bands, booking shows, and previously working at Reptilian Records and The Ottobar. When not immersed in collecting punk, hardcore, jazz and soul records, he's likely at the movies or reading (and collecting) 80s pulp paperbacks. He lives in Baltimore with his wife, two cats, and their dog, Homer.

About the Program:

• Doors will open to registered attendees at 6 pm.
• A local bookseller will be on-site and have books available for purchase.
• Free parking vouchers are available to program attendees who park at the Franklin Street Garage (15 W. Franklin Street) after 4pm. Ask Pratt event staff for your parking voucher prior to or after the program.
• There is no registration required for virtual attendance, simply visit the Enoch Pratt Free Library's Facebook or Youtube page.

Host or Publisher Enoch Pratt Free Library