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Music
Spin 11/99, p.193 "...His delivery becomes its own kind of theater: It's the sound of someone desperate enough to scream - for blood, for truth, for anything that's real. It's those transformations...that light up Harper's dauntingly eclectic fourth effort..."
Singer/songwriter Ben Harper continues to be one of the most creative artists making records today. While Harper's musical range and eclecticism are often discussed by both musicians and "reviewers," the general public hasn't heard much of Harper's music and therefore aren't aware of his expansive emotional range. By using a wide range of influences and styles, Harper manages to create a harmonious gem with BURN TO SHINE.
the WIZARD encourages you to experience this marvelous musician.
Those of you who are fans of Harper will not be surprised by his dynamic versatility. But those of you who are new listeners will be drawn to the buffet of moods and emotions.
"Steal My Kisses" is an up-tempo folk track that features a bit of human beat-boxing underneath. Harper's soft ballad voice shines bright on "Beloved One." Other tracks to check out are "Alone" and "The Woman in You," which both show off the tender side of Harper's songwriting. If you looking to rock outright, check out the title cut and "Forgiven."
Personnel: The Innocent Criminals: Ben Harper (vocals, acoustic & electric guitars); Juan Nelson (bass); Dean Butterworth (drums); David Leach (percussion).
Portions of this review are taken from Muze, Inc. and are Copyright 1998-2000 Muze Inc. All rights reserved.
Listen to the Music of Ben Harper on WIZARD RADIO
Books
On November 6, 1860, Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th president of the United States, winning less than the majority of the popular vote but 59 percent of the Electoral College. In the North, the Republican candidate's victory was widely, though not unanimously, hailed, while in the South it was roundly condemned. Horace Greeley, in an editorial reproduced in this excellent collection of primary documents, called Lincoln's record "an invincible attestation of the superiority of Free Society," whereas an Atlanta newspaper promised a Pennsylvania Avenue "paved ten fathoms deep with mangled bodies."
Drawing on journalistic accounts, memoirs, battle dispatches, and letters from actors large and small in the harrowing conflict, Gettysburg College historian Matthew Gallman gathers an indispensable day-by-day record of the Civil War, enlisting seven fellow historians (two of whom teach at West Point) to provide commentary that gives the documents needed context.
In his introduction to the volume, the noted Reconstruction scholar Eric Foner notes that the war made a nation-state of what had been a far-flung congeries of states. It ushered in the first national currency, the first federal income tax, and a national banking system, among other innovations. As it was unfolding, however, the war lent itself to being seen with smaller-scale immediacy--and that urgency, with all its attendant chaos, shines through on every page. A welcome and useful addition to the libraries of scholars, Civil War buffs, and students. --Gregory McNamee
Video
Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Willis) is a successful child psychologist who is shaken by the sudden reappearance and suicide of a former patient. Months later Crowe encounters Cole Sear (Osment), a troubled young boy who bears a similarity to his earlier patient. Dr. Crowe must try to save Cole, not only for the boy's sake, but for his own redemption.
But is Cole merely disturbed or are there greater forces at work? A gripping and subtle ghost story, with expert performances and strong direction from newcomer Shyamalan. Willis' finest performance was terribly underrated by critics.
Six Academy Award Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Shyamalan), Best Supporting Actor (Osment), Best Supporting Actress (Collette), Best Film Editing, Best Original Screenplay.
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