Search - Ben Harper :: Burn to Shine (Bonus CD)

Crows/Kravitz Fans - Don't Pass This Up

Jason Scott | Los Angeles, CA | 01/07/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The fact that Ben Harper remains largely unknown while lesser talents like Lenny Kravitz, Counting Crows and Live are so successful is one of those minor crimes against creativity and true musical expression. Don't get me wrong, I like those other guys, but Harper easily outshines them all. His songwriting chops are strong: "Two Hands of a Prayer," "Burn to Shine," "Suzie Blue" and "Less" all prove this. Production is impeccable, with each song delivering a unique sound to mirror it's emotional intensity - the delicate strings in "Beloved One," the chants and gongs subtly layering "Two Hands," the old-time fun of "Suzie," the raucous "Alone" and the triumphant "Forgiven."Hopefully, in an alternative universe, Ben Harper is a major rock god while Kravitz, Duritz, Dave Matthews et al are relegated to being considered barely fair imitations. Just because you're not hearing this guy's music on car and shoe commercials means that in this world, it's hard to hear him on the radio. Do yourself a favor and take a listen."

Ben Harper keeps growing as a recording artist

Jake Sand | Lynnwood, Washington | 11/30/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I am writing this review simply because, after that last one (the guy who gave it 3 stars) there are somethings that need to be said. This is a great album. The songwriting is great. The musical performance is spectacular. Yes, this album is more "studioized" and not as "rootsy". Throughout the album he goes out on a limb almost every song. I respect an artist whose willing to try new things and make the music that's in their head and their heart. Anyone can write a follow up album that's just like their last one, and while it'll would be great, I respect an artist who's willing to take a chance. Bands who put out album after album of the exact same sound may be great, but they are stagnant. Ben Harper's music is progressing and maturing. And yes, this album isn't as political. The songs are much more personal. But the songs are still honest and heartfelt. Should Ben write political songs just because people expect it? That would be selling out. He's writing from his soul, and if it's more personal that political this album, the that's fine with me. All in all, this is as great an album as his first three. If you want to agree or argue with me, than write me and we'll duke it out. Thanks for reading."

Another great Harper single

Arthur Bamford | Oak Brook, IL USA | 12/22/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It's always great when a band you like releases a new CD not only because of the album, but because of the singles. This single features the great title track of Ben's new record Burn to shine, which sounds like eric Clapton's "Lay Down Sally" It has a great old skool rock flavor. The first B-Side is Waiting on an Angel recorded live at a sold out show at Royal Albert Hall. Like any acoustic performance by Harper this song is performed with an unparalled level of emotion you can only hear at one of Ben Harper's shows. The second b-side appeared on some singles off of Fight For your Mind. It's a gospel tune called If I could hear my mama pray again. It is acapella with a small choir and Ben just singing his heart out. It's really a great song that is seldom performed live. If you can afford to drop the 12 bucks or whatever this is a great CD for any Harper fan."