By James Calemine
Ben Harper and the Blind Boys of Alabama’s There Will Be A Light transcends tiresome self-indulgent music, and emerges as a classic gospel album. Recorded in two sessions during January and March of 2004, these eleven songs capture the potent combination of Ben Harper and the Blind Boys of Alabama. The latter remains one of the most dynamic and long lasting gospel groups in the business. The Blind Boys recorded a Harper song on their critically acclaimed album Spirit of the Century, and their Grammy winning release, Higher Ground.
The provenance of this project originated with the idea of Harper recording one or two songs for the next Blind Boys album and turned into a full-blown collaboration. “Take My Hand” opens the album and defines the vitality of The Blind Boys. Harper’s songwriting skills shine on “Wicked Man.” He co-wrote the sanctified “Where Could I Go” with bandmates Jason Yates and ex-Black Crowes guitarist Marc Ford. “Church House Steps” resonates with the powerful and majestic harmonies of the Blind Boys. On the next track, Harper plays a mighty fine Dobro instrumental comprising the “11th Commandment”.
A version of the Bob Dylan/Danny O’Keefe song “Well, Well, Well” sounds like lowdown blues. The centerpiece composition complete with a Beatle-esque intro, “Pictures of Jesus,” ranks as a veritable tune in any era. An electrified blues version of “Satisfied Mind” displays the versatility of the Innocent Criminals while the traditional arrangement of “Mother Pray” stands as the most soulful song on the album.
The title track evokes a musical bliss that inspires faith in any common sinner. Harper penned “Church On Time” which represents another upbeat song on the album, with emotive lyrics:
“Revelation chapter eight
Seven angels at the gate
You don’t want to make them late
We’re gonna make it to the church on time.”
Ben Harper and the Blind Boys of Alabama achieved the difficult goal of making a gospel album for rock and roll listeners. There Will Be A Light provides strong medicine for the soul.
Read my interview with the late Blind Boy Clarence Fountain in Insured Beyond The Grave