Ben Harper To Release New Album

TORONTO, Canada (VIRGIN/EMI CANADA Press Release Fans Website) - The labels are proud to announce that on Tuesday March 11th BEN HARPER will release his fifth studio album "Diamonds on the Inside."

One cannot simply classify the raw appeal of Ben Harper. He is a musician, an artist, and an individualist. For nearly ten years, Harper and his trademark Weissenborn guitar have been a conscious counterweight to corporate rock & roll. Starting in 1994, Harper has made four studio records: "Welcome to the Cruel World" (1994); "Fight For You Mind" (1995); "The Will to Live" (1997); "Burn to Shine" (1999); and one live album "Live From Mars" (2001). Each of Harper's five releases has long surpassed GOLD Certification in Canada.

"Diamonds on the Inside" is a window into the intensely introspective heart and soul of one of rock's overlooked treasures. As genre defying as it is inspiring, "Diamonds" is classic Harper. With tastes of funk, folk, roots and rock Harper transcends mediocrity. He takes us from the feel good reggae groove of "With My Own Two Hands," to the world beat chimes of Africa on "Pictures of Jesus," featuring the renowned Ladysmith Black Mambazo ten-man choir.

Alongside Harper are The Innocent Criminals � bassist Juan Nelson, percussionist Leon Lewis Mobley and drummer Oliver Charles � who deliver a charismatic, emotional set of songs that is Harper's most comprehensive to date. Collaborating extensively on the album is keyboardist Greg Kurksin (Beck, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Geggy Tah, Flaming Lips).

The first single "With My Own Two Hands" can be heard by visiting Ben's official website. Also featured on the site is a slide show of Ben and The Innocent Criminals in the studio along with notes, letters and pictures posted by Ben.