Album Review: Benjamin Booker's 'Witness'

2017
10 songs
Length: 32:07
Available to buy from his store

I can’t get enough of Benjamin Booker. I first heard his latest album ‘Witness’ a couple of weeks ago and it’s pretty much all I’ve listened to since. ‘Witness’ is a mix of blues and garage rock that pairs the raw blues guitar of his first album with a more extensive sound.

Booker’s debut self-titled album was recorded in Nashville in 2013 and released in 2014. It was an instant success, debuting in the top 10 of Billboard's Alternative Albums and Independent Albums charts. It lead to appearances on ‘Late Night with David Letterman’ and ‘Conan’ and touring with Jack White and Courtney Barnett. It shows off some impressive guitar work with a vintage rock ‘n roll sound. 

‘Witness’ encompasses elements of Booker’s self-titled debut, but also much more. It also has less of the raw, frantic energy of Booker’s debut, although you wouldn’t know it from the opening track ‘Right on You,’ which is an uptempo, rock ‘n roll gem. ‘Off the Ground’ is another throwback, lulling you into sleepy submission before exploding into a rock ‘n roll number. 

Booker has embraced a more soulful, gospel sound that complements his husky voice beautifully. The title track features gospel singer Mavis Staples, and was described by the New York Times as ‘a piano-pounding hymn for Black Lives Matter.’ ‘Believe’ incorporates strings with gospel harmonies for a poignant examination of faith and ‘Carry’ is incredibly heartfelt. 

Booker carves out some lovely melodies.‘The Slow Drag Under,’ has the feel of an African-American folk song. ‘Truth is Heavy,’ is richly textured with some intricate guitar work. ‘Overtime’ has a surf rock tinge. 

‘Witness’ is a fantastic sophomore album from an accomplished singer, songwriter and guitarist. The album is proof of Booker’s evolution as an artist; incorporating enough of the old sound with some wonderful new elements.