Ben Harper - Both Sides of the Gun

Excellent, with a few exceptions

Anyone who has spent any time with Ben's music knows that he has the tendency to wax strange now and again, and "Both Sides of the Gun" is no exception.

Not quite as masterful as his "Fight for Your Mind" days, "Both Sides" certainly is ambitious and rich in melodic texture. The mellower second disc does tend to lose unique identity from one song to another, making a more appealing background set rather than a compelling can't-turn-it-off ride from beginning to end.

The first disc, with the single "Better Way" and many other powerful, catchy tunes, is definitely the most distinctive half of this collection. Harper lays down his thick, soulful grooves in a number of tunes, and his arrangements are fresh, yet still trademark Ben Harper.

There are a few jarring moments, such as the shouting bit in "Better Way" and the fairly obnoxious "Please Don't Talk About Murder While I'm Eating," but they hardly outweigh the artistry and feel of the rest of the double disc. Not the best place for Ben Harper newbies to start, but a definite must-buy for any long-time fans. May 8, 2008

Half and Half

This is a very interesting cd. I'm not crazy about disc 1 (the softer acoustic). I know Ben has a tremendous musical gift and is very versatile. I prefer his upbeat funk music like on disc 2. I think "Better Way", "Gather 'Round the Stone", and "Black Rain" are my favorites on this cd due to their overall message.

"Black Rain" particularly hit me in an amazing way because of my political stand point on the current administration. I think its great that such a name as Ben Harper is making such an honest and truthful message. The song gives me the chills and 'pumps me up' every time I hear it.

Worth buying the CD, and you have the option of the softer disc 1 or the heavier bold disc 2. April 22, 2008

No one is more consistent than Harper

If there is any other artist that continues time and time again to produce quality CDs on the level of Ben Harper, please let me know. Consistently, he brings eclectic and genre transcending albums that stand alone in music today. His lyrics never fail to reach a depth that challenges the listener to go back and listen for the 50th time in order to squezze yet another drop of his insight. Simply put, Ben Harper is the prophet of our age. July 10, 2007

cheaper than itunes!

I like this album a lot, 4 stars.

Just noticed it's cheaper here than on itunes. Dang, why not just buy the actual CD! February 8, 2007

Amazing album..very moving

Why wouldn't you get this album? It's full of amazing songs with very powerful meaning and not to mention the genius behind all the songs, Ben Harper. Even if you're not a big fan of his, I think this album will convert you. January 25, 2007

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