Spin & Score – one spin & one review per album

Album Thoughts

Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals aren’t a band I’ve often listened to, as Ben Harper’s solo career is more well-known to me.  Craig suggested I listen to Lifeline, so I gave it a go.

My first impression was that this is a soulful rock album with deeply personal subject matter and songs.  From the very first bassline in “Fight Outta You” and the organ in the background, I knew this album would be soulful. It’s full of heartwarming grooves and melodies, and they don’t disappoint.

“In The Colours” has a shuffle groove that makes you want to tap your foot. The grand piano complements the rhythm beautifully. The smooth groove keeps you engaged as you float through the song, listening to Ben Harper serenade you about dancing in the “colours of the dusk.” 

I really enjoy how this album isn’t afraid to explore various sub-genres of rock. The first two songs are soulful, but then “Fool for a Lonesome Train” takes you on a 45-degree swing into southern rock territory. The harmonica in the background creates a sense of being on a lonesome train with Ben, who’s gazing into the distance, longing for the name of the love he left behind. This song reminds me of John Mayer’s “Born & Raised,” a fantastic southern rock/pop album.

While Ben Harper’s voice isn’t the crisp, clear vocal control of artists like Michael Jackson or Adele, this album captures the raw energy of his voice. It suits his vocal range and tone perfectly, making you lean in closer when he’s crying through the high notes.

The pianist on this record really loves to play that bouncy, up-tempo style. Songs like “Say You Will” make you want to stand up and scream “I will,” especially when the piano and harmonies come flying through. The slide guitar on the bridge then reminds you of the previous southern tracks, and Ben’s pleading bridge almost sounds like a plea.

“Put It On Me” is a song that resonates with me every time I listen to the album, even at the café. The rhythm guitar riff and heavy drum beat bring me immense joy.  There’s something truly special about having a crisp ride throughout a song. It gives the drummer more freedom to add interesting fills, keeping the beat engaging.  This, combined with Ben’s bouncy melody over a grand piano, makes it truly special.

Now, let’s talk about one of the best guitar solos I’ve ever heard, “Paris Sunrise #7” Leading into Lifeline is honestly such a spiritual section of the album.  I can’t think of anything better or a more beautiful way to finish an album. I’d only dream of being able to play it. 

Then we go into “Lifeline,” and the first lyric hits you harder than you expect after all the soulful music before it.  Personally, I think this is what makes this song “Lifeline” so special and powerful: the energy leading up to it. You don’t expect to be brought crashing back down to earth with such a life-affirming message like “Life is much too short to sit and wonder who’s gonna make the next move.” Two songs ago, I was up dancing in what felt like a rock church, and now I’m crying on the kerb of a street in the rain. So powerful and gripping!

If I’m being honest with myself, this isn’t my favourite album. It’s a very pleasing album, though, and it hasn’t been something I’ve been reaching for lately. This could be because I’m in a very neo soul mentality or it just didn’t hit me as I hoped it would. However, I can’t deny the beauty of the album.  Overall, it’s raw and powerful with a very soulful groove, and I think it would surprise a lot of people. Because of that, I’ll certainly be doing more research about Ben Harper and other albums of his that I’ve missed along the way of life.  

Track List

1. Fight Outta You
2. In The Colors
3. Fool For A Lonesome Train
4. Needed You Tonight
5. Having Wings
6. Say You Will
7. Younger Than Today
8. Put It On Me
9. Heart Of Matters
10. Paris Sunrise #7
11. Lifeline