Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals

The Profile

American band fronted by Ben Harper, known for a blend of blues, folk, rock, and reggae and for powerful live shows with longtime collaborators including bassist Juan Nelson and percussionist Leon Mobley. Key releases include Burn to Shine (1999), Lifeline (2007), and Call It What It Is (2016), alongside the acclaimed live set Live From Mars (2001).

Reviews highlight their 2004 Heineken Jammin’ Festival set in Imola; the double live album Live From Mars (electric + acoustic); extended crowd-led finales like With My Own Two Hands; blues standouts such as Show Me a Little Shame; reggae nods (Burn One Down); and covers ranging from Led Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love to Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing. Slide guitar and the Weissenborn feature prominently; bassist Juan Nelson is repeatedly praised.

Reviews celebrate the band’s onstage power, crowd connection, and extended jams (yes, With My Own Two Hands goes long). Live From Mars earns top praise as a double electric/acoustic showcase. Lifeline is deemed light but well played with standout moments. Burn to Shine is highlighted for its bluesy peaks like Show Me a Little Shame and The Woman in You. The 2004 Imola festival set left strong impressions—mostly glowing, with a preacher vibe noted by one reviewer.