The last time Ben Harper played in Utah, he brought along a little-known musical friend as a supporting act at the Delta Center.
Two years later, that little-known friend, Jack Johnson, continues to open for Harper — but this time he is not simply supporting him. Both artists are playing full sets, guaranteeing at least four hours of music for the sold-out Deer Valley amphitheater concert on Monday night.
Since his 1993 debut, "Welcome to the Cruel World," Harper has established himself as one of the most eclectic musicians around, with styles ranging from gospel to beat-box to flat-out rock 'n' roll on his albums. His latest, the uneven but still excellent "Diamonds on the Inside," expands his horizons even further.
While Johnson's musical career is still catching fire, he has already made a name for himself in the surfing world as a surf-movie director, including last year's "September Sessions." His laid-back lyrics and casual guitar stylings do not stray far from his surfer roots, although assistance from musicians such as G. Love & Special Sauce can help push his sound. Johnson's best song, "Flake," includes Harper on slide guitar, and it would not be surprising to see each of them sit in for a couple of songs on the other's set.
Gates open at 4 p.m., with D.J. Logic starting at 5:30 and Johnson playing at 6.
E-MAIL: jloftin@desnews.com