Excuse Me Mister, the fourth studio album by Ben Harper, is a soulful and introspective collection of songs that showcases the artist's versatility and sincerity. Released in 1993, the album features Harper's signature blend of blues, folk, and rock, with lyrics that touch on themes of love, loss, and social justice.
From the opening track, "Like a King," which addresses the killing of Rodney King and the ensuing riots in Los Angeles, to the closing ballad, "I'll Rise," which draws inspiration from Maya Angelou's poem of the same name, Excuse Me Mister is a powerful and poignant statement on the state of the world.
Harper's guitar playing is as impressive as ever, with his fingerpicking and slide techniques adding depth and emotion to each song. His vocals are also a highlight, ranging from tender and vulnerable on tracks like "Please Bleed" to raw and gritty on "Whipping Boy."