Artist: Ben Harper Album: Diamonds on the Inside

Year: 2003
Duration: 0:0-1

A of Ben Harper's Diamonds on the Inside

Ben Harper is a hugely influential artist in the world of music, known for his unique blend of rock, blues, and soul. His 2003 album, Diamonds on the Inside, is considered by many to be a classic in the genre, with its mix of acoustic and electric guitars, contemplative lyrics, and soulful vocals. In this article, we'll be taking a closer look at the album, its history, and why it's still relevant today.
Firstly, a brief history of Ben Harper. Born in Pomona, California in 1969, Harper grew up surrounded by music thanks to his mother's passion for folk rock. He began playing guitar in his early teens and was soon performing at local cafes and bars. He first gained attention with his 1994 debut album, Welcome to the Cruel World, which featured hits like Forever and Waiting on an Angel. Since then, he's released over a dozen albums and collaborated with artists like Van Morrison, the Blind Boys of Alabama, and Charlie Musselwhite.
Diamonds on the Inside was released in 2003 and marked a departure from the bluesy sound of Harper's previous albums. This time, he incorporated more folk and acoustic elements, resulting in a more intimate and reflective album. The title itself is a reference to the idea that sometimes, the most valuable and beautiful things can be hidden in plain sight.
The album's first single, With My Own Two Hands, quickly became a fan favorite thanks to its upbeat melody and optimistic lyrics. Other standout tracks include When It's Good, Touch from Your Lust, and The Way You Found Me. Throughout the album, Harper showcases his incredible vocal range and guitar skills, often experimenting with different sounds and rhythms. His lyrics are introspective and thought-provoking, touching on themes like love, loss, and redemption.
Perhaps the most innovative part of Diamonds on the Inside is the way in which Harper seamlessly blends different genres and styles. He references everything from country to reggae to funk, creating a sound that's truly unique. He also incorporates a variety of instruments, including the lap steel guitar and the banjo, adding depth and texture to the overall sound.
Critics have praised Diamonds on the Inside for its raw honesty and musical depth. Rolling Stone called it a gentle and thoroughly engrossing set of ballads, introspective folk tunes, and country blues, while AllMusic hailed it as a beautiful, breathless work of art. Some critics have noted that the album can be a bit meandering at times, and perhaps lacks the cohesiveness of some of Harper's earlier work.
Overall, Diamonds on the Inside is a powerful and moving album that showcases Ben Harper's incredible talent as a musician and songwriter. Whether you're a fan of folk, blues, or just great music in general, this album is definitely worth a listen. Its combination of heartfelt lyrics, innovative sounds, and impressive guitar work make it a classic in the genre. Even almost 20 years later, it's still just as relevant and inspiring now as it was when it first came out. So, if you haven't heard it yet, grab a copy and prepare to be blown away.