Ben Harper - Diamonds on the Inside

Ben Harper is a musical preacher of sorts, never one to be shy in speaking his mind about social conformity. If his first two albums -- Welcome to the Cruel World and Fight for Your Mind -- didn't clue you in, Diamonds on the Inside will definitely do so. Diamonds on the Inside marks Harper's fifth studio effort and this time he's emotionally in touch with what makes his heart burst. This is a passionate album, no doubt. His signature Weissenborn guitar joins him once more and Harper's classic groovy funk is heavy; however, Harper adds worldbeat to his musical plank. From the Marley-esque vibe of "With My Own Two Hands" to the African soundscapes of Ladysmith Black Mambazo on "Picture of Jesus," Harper's purist presentation is smooth. "When It's Good" gives a little country blues twang, while "Touch From You Lust" is a sexy haze of writhing riffs. "Temporary Remedy" follows the funk Lenny Kravitz-style, and Harper's a bit campy. It's a noticeable change from his typically serious stature and a nice shift in personality, too. Diamonds on the Inside is another stunning effort from one of rock's underground heroes. Harper has consistently worked with what appeals to him musically for nearly a decade, ignoring what fits the mainstream. Diamonds on the Inside is Harper's sixth chapter of truth and just one listen to the electric blaze of "Everything" will convince you. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide

Name Credits Al Yasha Anderson Guitar Amy Wilkins Harp Ben Elder Research, Advisor Ben Harper Tongue Drum, Drums, Guitar (Rhythm), Guitar (Acoustic), Organ, Bass, Vocals, Arranger, Guitar (Electric), Slide Guitar, Guitar, Synthesizer Bass, Producer Blue Sky Photography Carla Benson Vocals (Background) Darrel Sims Viola David Ralicke Trombone Gavin Lurssen Mastering Greg Kurstin Arranger, Mellotron, Synthesizer, Piano (Electric), Piano, Organ (Hammond), Celeste, Vocals (Background), Clavinet Greg Leisz Pedal Steel John Ingram Vocals (Background) Jon Shapiro Photography Josef Zimmerman Bass (Upright) Josh Florian Assistant Juan Nelson Bass, Vocals (Background) June Murakawa Assistant Engineer Kevin Dean Assistant Engineer Ladysmith Black Mambazo Vocals Leo Chelyapov Clarinet Leon Mobley Sound Effects, Vocals (Background), Percussion Mike King Design, Layout Design Misty Love Vocals (Background) Nicky P. Guitar (Acoustic), Guitar (Electric), Guitar Oliver Francis Charles Drums, Vocals (Background) Rail Jon Rogut Assistant Rebecca Yeh Cello Rick "Soldier" Will Engineer Ron Blake Trumpet Timothy Loo Cello Todd Burke Mixing, Engineer Warren Darius Aftahi Photography