Birmingham SlossFest profile: Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals
Ben Harper has covered a lot of musical ground since his first album appeared in 1994. (Eric Hendrikx)
Performer: Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals
Type of music: Rock/Blues/Folk/Reggae
About: A native of Pomona, Calif., Ben Harper has been charting an eclectic musical course since the release of his debut album, “Welcome to the Cruel World,” in 1994. The Innocent Criminals is just the latest in a long line of creative alliances for Harper, whose music ranges from searing blues to folk, soul, reggae and jam rock. He has even collaborated with gospel legends Blind Boys of Alabama on their Grammy-winning record, “There Will Be a Light,” which Harper produced. A multitalented instrumentalist, Harper glides from acoustic to electric lap steel to slide guitar during his performances, switching from evocative Americana to riotous acid rock, not to mention his vocals, which range from sweet and sultry to shout-it-out, straight-up rock ‘n‘ roll.
Follow Harper on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Discography: “Welcome To the Cruel World,” “Fight For Your Mind,” “The Will to Live,” “Burn to Shine,” “Diamonds on the Inside,” “There Will Be a Light,” “Both Sides of the Gun,” “Lifeline,” “White Lies for Dark Times,” “As I Call You Down,” “Give Till It’s Gone,” “Get Up!” “Childhood Home” and “Call It What It Is.”
You might have heard: “A House Is A Home” – a poignant, acoustic duet featuring Harper and his mother, Ellen, also a multi-instrumentalist. The song is from the record “Childhood Home,” which features 10 songs, six written by Harper and four penned by his mom. It is a tribute to the joys, sorrows and struggles of “home” and family life, wherever home is.
Playing at SlossFest: Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals will perform on the Blast stage Saturday, July 16, from 7:45 to 8:45 p.m.
Sloss Music and Arts Festival takes place at the historic Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham July 16-17 and features 40 performers on four stages. Tickets can be purchased here.
