After seven years of absence American singer-songwriter Ben Harper is bringing back his eclectic mix of blues, folk, soul, reggae and rock music to the world.. “You get back on a bike and you remember how to ride?” says percussionist Leon Mobley with a laugh. “We’re riding.” Harper’s band, the Innocent Criminals, also includes bassist Juan Nelson, guitarist Michael Ward, keyboardist Jason Yates, and drummer Oliver Charles. Together, they have previously produced GRAMMY nominated and award winning albums and kept in touch throughout their years of separation.”I wanted to start the reformation of the band by moving forward with new material,” Harper explains. “There’s something about the urgency and enthusiasm of making a new record that somehow tee-d up rehearsing the older material.” Read more on the band’s break and subsequent reunion at Rolling Stone.
Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals started off their return to touring with four sold-out nights at the Fillmore in San Francisco in May of 2015. They are now working on a new album filled with eclectic sounds such as ballads and reggae-as always, staying in tune with their reputation of creating and performing diverse musical sets. Tickets for their stop at the SB Bowl on Saturday, September 19 at 6:00 PM are on sale now. Seize your chance to hear this group live for the first time in years by getting yours here.