Call It What It Is
by Ben Harper & the Innocent Criminals
  • Record Label: Fantasy
  • Release Date: Apr 8, 2016
Metascore
73

Generally favorable reviews - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
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  1. Entertainment Weekly
    Apr 8, 2016
    91
    It’s a welcome homecoming. Recorded in separate sessions spanning the course of a year, the 11-song set is his most diverse collection in years.
  2. Uncut
    Apr 6, 2016
    80
    There aren't too many surprises here, just a well-honed primer in what Harper does best, fusing blues, rock, folk, country, R'n'B, gospel and reggae with politically conscious lyrics into a dynamic stew. [May 2016, p.74]
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  3. AllMusic
    Apr 8, 2016
    70
    When he's backed by the Innocent Criminals, Harper never seems to be trying too hard, and that's why Call It What It Is is a cut above many of his records.
  5. American Songwriter
    Apr 6, 2016
    70
    Not only is this a treat for longtime fans, but hopefully a sign for others to take Harper’s lead, creating relevant, incisive songs that are lyrically, musically and philosophically as inspirational and provocative as those here.
  6. Mojo
    Apr 6, 2016
    60
    The best songs here--the loose, Blaxploitation soul groove Bones; the Cat Stevens-like Deeper And Deeper--are those on which Harper sounds most relaxed and contemplative. [May 2016, p.86]
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  7. Q Magazine
    Apr 6, 2016
    60
    The work of a solid pro rather than gripped by genius. [May 2016, p.111]
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User Score
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No user score yet- Awaiting 2 more ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 2
  3. Negative: 0 out of 2
  1. anonymous1baby
    Jul 5, 2016
    5
    All the beats and melodies are lifted from Blues and Reggae standards.

    "If we could dance like fire we'd never get burned" Yikes, that's    All the beats and melodies are lifted from Blues and Reggae standards.

    "If we could dance like fire we'd never get burned" Yikes, that's what passes for a lyric Ben?

    After you've waded through the numerous tepid, obvious, and tedious songs on this album, you'll find a couple merely listenable items like Shine, Bones, and even the silly Pink Balloon. I can't honestly recommend this album just for those 3 songs however, so only die-hard Ben Harper fans need give this a listen.    … Full Review »
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