Review-Ben Harper-White Lies for Dark Times

Ben Harper's latest album breaks in a whole new band and a new sound. The eleven tracks of heavily amplified rock and blues here showcase perfectly the sound of Ben's new band Relentless 7. Relentless 7 is an Austin, TX based trio Harper discovered when a van driver chauffeuring Harper to an Austin gig insisted he hear a demo...and Harper loved it.

The first sound on the album is Harper's slide guitar bringing in "Number With no Name" an unapologetic rocker with an uplifting chorus that sets the tone for what is to come. There is quite a bit of diversity...a nod to U2 on"Up to You Now," with its delicate vocals and heavy rhythm and also a clear sixties British invasion influence on "Lay There and Hate Me." "Shimmer and Shine" is my absolute favorite...it takes no prisoners from the first note to the last.

In spite of the amps being set on eleven, the lyrical content of this album is absolutely identifiable as Harper's. The slide guitar and vocals here are the elements that work the best...not surprisingly these have sustained Harper's career all along. The first half of this effort ranks with Harper's finest work. Unfortunately the second half isn't as well thought out and doesn't fare so well. I recommend downloading the first half and shelving the rest.

Ben Harper/Relentless 7-White Lies for Dark Times 3-1/2 out of 5