Ben Harper does not belong in today. While that is a bit of a cryptic statement, once his new album, Diamonds On The Inside, is played, it makes perfect sense. Harper captures the sounds and emotions so delicately laid out by musicians of days past.

Backed by the Innocent Criminals, the California native uses a wide variety of elements to convey his feelings. Throughout Diamonds On The Inside, Harper pulls from the cabinets acoustic, electric and slide guitars as well as an organ, lute, accordion and string section. Born into a musical family, singer / songwriter / guitarist / producer Harper has a finely honed skill no matter the instrument or style.

Almost a decade since his debut album, Welcome To The Cruel World, Harper has perfected his blend of classic styles. "Run Eyed Blues" is a classic blues song placed in total 70s funk, where "When She Believes" is a 50s ballad punctuated by the aforementioned accordion and string section. Harper has no problem kicking up the electricity to amplify his emotion as on "Touch From Your Lust", which brings to mind classic Stevie Ray Vaughan, and "So High So Low", a Lenny Kravitz-like rock track.

But, by far, "With My Own Two Hands" is the stand out track. Very Marley-esque, Harper puts a positive message to a reggae bounce. There are mini organ and guitar solos but the spotlight remains centered on Harper's soulful vocals. Not to be left out, the bass and drums at times range out from their backing positions and add depth and soul.

Depth and soul: two qualities that Harper possesses in spades. He deftly translates them into his music and makes Diamonds On The Inside a must-buy.