Available with FIGHT FOR YOUR MIND and THE WILL TO LIVE in THE BEN HARPER BOX SET.
The aggressive, powerhouse sound singer/songwriter Ben Harper would introduce with his band the Innocent Criminals on 1998's THE WILL TO LIVE is not present on the artist's debut, WELCOME TO THE CRUEL WORLD. Instead, this '94 album shines a spotlight on Harper's acoustic guitar, plaintive voice, and soulful folk songs. Harper's intensity as a performer is clear from the opening guitar instrumental "The Three of Us" (which commands attention with its subtle, simple repetitions) to "I'll Rise," a gospel-inflected interpretation of Maya Angelou's poem "And Still I Rise."
Sonically, the record is of a piece, with understated dynamics and an emphasis on intimate, acoustic, bluesy folk-rock. But Harper impresses most with his penchant for incorporating a range of stylistic influences, such as the late-'60s reggae cast of "Breakin' Down" and the Cajun-country romp of "Mama's Got a Girlfriend Now." Moreover, Harper strikes an admirable balance between songs that address issues of social injustice ("Like a King") and those that touch on personal concerns of love and identity ("Pleasure and Pain"). This combination, on top of Harper's obvious musical talents, makes for an impressive, thoroughly enjoyable first effort.
Personnel: Ben Harper (vocals, acoustic & electric guitar, dobro); Suzie Katayama (cello); Richard Cook (Uillean pipes); John McKnight (accordion, bass); Gail Deadrick (piano); Rock Deadrick (drums, percussion, background vocals); Jelani Jones, Kevin Williams, Clyde Allen, Clarence Butler, Clabe Hangan, Kenneth McDaniel, John Taylor (background vocals).Spin (3/94, p.79) - "...the deep moan of the title track proves [Harper] can nail down a blue note with authority...Never mind the obvious potential--Harper's moral fire makes him worth hearing right now..." Q (10/94, p.116) - 4 Stars - Excellent - "...hugely impressive example of modern acoustic folk blues, a mix that might easily be unique...A natural talent and a quiet lovely record..." Dirty Linen (6-7/94, p.51) - "...remarkable maturity....It's the most striking debut since Tracy Chapman's..."
Deep and Poetic Probably the best album for this great Artist. Great songs, deep text, and a groove ever shown by Ben. Try to listen it!! Submitted by a reviewer (Reggio Emilai ITaly) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo
The best since Hendrix. Ben Harper is the greatest innovator, his music is so original. Not only does he have the touch of blues, but also he isnt afraid to add religion to his music. For not being commercialy known he can still sell out concert venues. When you see Ben Harper live, he doesnt dazzle you with big expensive light shows or gimmicks, he touches your soul with his music alone.
In closing, Ben Harper is the master of SOUL. The greatest since Jimi Hendrix. Period. Submitted by runvs0u812 (White Lake, Mi) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo
Musical Love This is a beautiful album, with a different sound than the later albums. Just Ben, the guitar, and his art. Soft, methodical, and soothing, and with enough soul to break even the coldest of hearts. Submitted by eatdrinkbemerry (The Dalles, Oregon) Was This Review Helpful? YesNo
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