Ben Harper and theInnocent Criminals -Lifeline

Tue 16th Oct, 2007 in Music Reviews

After commencing an exhausting nine month tour, most bands take time off, or at least time to breathe. However, Ben Harper and The Innocent Criminals finished off their tour with a whirlwind eight weeks in Europe and headed straight for the studio. They chose a cosy locale, Gang Studios in Paris, and got straight to work recording their newest album, Lifeline.

Lifeline’s mere seven day live recording period is impressive on its own. The use of a sixteen track analogue tape machine, without the help of computers or ProTools on its 11 tracks, only adds to the accomplishment of Harper and his band on this risky and soulful album.

As always, Harper’s lyrics are poignant and refreshing. When coupled with the sounds which emanate with ease from The Innocent Criminal’s, Oliver Charles (drums), Leon Mobley (percussion), Juan Nelson (bass), Michael Ward (guitar), and Jason Yates (keyboards), the tracks come to life naturally.This simplicity in the recording of the album is best exemplified by the album’s title track, Lifeline, which showcases Harper’s ease in writing and producing quality music.

The record begins with Fight Outta You, a track that features Harper’s smoky and haunting voice, meanwhile packing a punch with deep lyrics and Yates’ organ styling. Most of the album radiates a classically chill vibe, but songs such as Put It On Me picks up the tempo of the album with its lively, rhythmic guitar chords and backup vocals.

Harper remarked that recording immediately following touring makes perfect sense, seeing as the best equipment is at their disposal and their musical abilities are heightened and fresh. After listening to Lifeline, it is hard not to agree.