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This is considered by most fans to be Ben Harper's best work, but I don't think it showcases just how great he is. He has such a huge stage presence, such passion, skill, and charisma. This album isn't bad, in fact it's a really solid four star album, but Harper is just a much better live act than a studio musician.
If you have never heard Ben Harper this is a great introduction, but I would suggest seeing him live. Even if you aren't a fan of this type of music you need to see him perform. I don't think any of his studio recordings do.
If he comes to a town near you make it a point to go, because he puts on one of the best shows ever. Some artists just don't record well. I don't know why that is, but I would lump Ben Harper in that category.
I went to three festivals in three days back in 1998 (Furtherfest, Horde Festival & Ozzfest) and out of the forty or so bands that I saw that weekend he was the best live. The guy is great.
This may be his best album, but despite all the musical styles he dabbles in he doesn't seem to have come up with more than a somewhat competent pastiche of reggae, funk, soul, folk, etc. without adding a lot that's new. Every artist, without exception, draws on previous artists but the creativity is adding SOMETHING new or combining arts in different ways and I just don't hear it here.
I have no idea what Ben Harper's music is technically "labeled" but it feels like funk, acoustic, chill to me. The lyrics are always an intriguing ride, and I love the longer songs that add a little jam time because the band that backs Harper up is crazy fun to listen to.As for Ben Harper's voice it soothes all the aches of the day.Ben Harper never dissappoints. And some goon recently said that Harperr was just there, well I popped into my car and the passenger was nodding and visibly enjoying the tunage, they turned and said "What is this, it feels good." Yeah.I like Ground on Down, Gold to Me (time to jam) Burn One Day (herbal intentions), Really like the message and the beat to People Lead and of course I Firmly stand behind that you must Fight For Your Mind.This album is for the little rebel in you.
The album does not have the variety as Both Sides of the Gun, a soft side and a heavier side. The music was good however not as good as the last album. You will enjoy it.
His soulful vocals. I am a fan of Ben Harpers. The lyrics of this cd and the energy that went into it, make it my favorite all time of his albums. Have been since the '90's. I love his vision of music. I even own his newer ones, they still do not compare. This is where it all started.
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