Fight for Your Mind fully embraces
Ben Harper's influences (
Dylan,
Marley,
Havens, and
Hendrix) into a complete sound while simultaneously broadening his thematic and musical palette.
Oliver Charles' tactile drumming and
Leon Mobley's percussion work give a sparkle to
Harper's music that was absent on his debut. Songs like "Gold to Me" and "Excuse Me Mr." show
Harper growing as a poet, approaching ideas via more subtle avenues. The single "Ground on Down" and epic jam "God Fearing Man" capture some of the explosive energy of his live performances. The latter makes allusions to "While My Guitar Gently Weeps," and that's exactly what
Harper does -- allows his trademark Weissenborn guitar to scream out to his audience. The only misstep on this album is his sophomoric weed anthem "Burn One Down," but one might argue that a little tarnish adds character. ~ Ryan Randall Goble