Ben Harper - 'Better Way' (Virgin) Released 20/03/06

'Better Way' is the leading single from Ben Harper's sixth album - 'Both Sides Of The Gun', and is sure set to prick many consciences. The track exudes positive energy with a sun-drenched number. Whilst it could be levelled as a hippy-homily of sorts, and so could all idealism and talk of things to galvanise into action - on 'Better Way' Ben sings - "...what good is a man that won't take a stand/ what good is a city with no better plans...I beleieve in a better way...", tidy instruments - sitar, dazzling slide, neat drums and percussion add to the layers of richness. With two mixes - Peace Mix and War Mix, it's an erstwhile taster of the anticipated album.