Fans of Ben Harper may be surprised to see his latest album take a gospel turn as he collaborates with the Blind Boys of Alabama on "There Will Be Light." But the result will leave them inquiring why he didn't do it sooner.
The disc features stripped-down percussion, a bluesy guitar and an ever-present tambourine. The album begins with one of the tightest tracks, "Take My Hand." The Blind Boys' gospel gets meshed with Harper's voice humming above; all are carelessly flung overtop a laidback groove to produce the sound for which Harper is known.
The song "Wicked Man" demonstrates that Harper has definitely got soul. He sings, "Children come running up to the truth/ But you've got to peel the skin to get the fruit/ And while one's living high, another's grieving/ But what's sweet by morning is bitter by evening." The track opens with a guitar reminiscent of one of Harper's earlier hits, "Steal My Kisses," and is soon accompanied by bursting harmony from the Blind Boys.
It's easy to envision "Church House Steps," "Mother Pray" and "Church on Time" being performed in a Louisiana chapel with a full choir in front of a standing audience clapping on the off-beat.
One of the more distinct songs is a cover of "Satisfied Mind." Although such artists as Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash and Jeff Buckley have covered this track, Harper and the Blind Boys give it a new flavor. There's doo-wop in the background, a lowdown guitar and vocalists that aren't afraid to howl.
Ben Harper has previously appeared on two albums by the Blind Boys of Alabama, "Spirit of the Century" and "Higher Ground." This time around, the listener is treated to bluegrass-style guitar successfully blended with soulful harmony and Harper's unrestrained style.
