Outstanding talent and versatility

First off, if you haven't seen Ben live, make sure you check him out next time he comes your way. He almost never plays a song the same way and has the ability to lash out thundering Hendrix type solos on one song and then calm things down with a gospel/blues acoustic number followed by a bit of reggae.

Versatility comes shining through on "Burn to Shine" This album covers blues-rap fusion on "Steal My Kisses", anthem rock on "Please Bleed", traditional blues on "Show Me A Little Shame" and quiet gospel on "In The Lord's Arms". Ben does a great version of "Sexual Healing" in concert that I hope comes out on the upcoming live album.

Ben Harper can't be pigeon-holed into any one style. The common thread running through his music is his exceptional talent on guitar, especially on the Weissenborn hollow-necked slide guitar that he uses on heavier numbers. The radio songs "Burn to Shine" and "Steal My Kisses" are not representative of Ben's discography, although "SMK" is a fun, energetic number that really plays well live. I would also highly recommend "Fight for Your Mind" for a closer look at the spiritual side of Ben's music.

Songs on this album that for me stand up to heavy repeated listening:
The Woman in You
Two Hands of a Prayer
Forgiven
Beloved One
In the Lord's Arms