Musical Savior or False Prophet?
The enigma that is Devendra Banhart
The enigma that is Devendra Banhart
Brian Wilson met Jim Morrison in Heaven and then there was balance. What Will We Be, the new album from freak-folk phenom Devendra Banhart evokes the timelessness of the great seventies folk pioneers and the innovation of legendary rock gods. Its cosmic feel calls to mind the essence of Van Morrison’s masterpiece Astral Weeks with its ethereal and penetrating instrumentals paired with sonically soothing and mentally entrancing lyrics. Walilamdzi is an adult lullaby which captures the sweet hidden beauty of autumn in its 2 minutes of quiet texture. It is possibly the most seraphic piece of work in Banhart’s entire catalogue. Chin Chin & Muck Muck is an auditory jaunt from romantic jazz, through whimsical cabaret, to Morrison-esque poetry with a Spanish twist. Rats is full-on Morrison with elements of Glam Rock greats Marc Bolan and David Bowie thrown in the mix. It is a sexually charged sojourn that feels both titillating and childlike in its evocation of happiness. Foolin’ ends the record with a Caribbean-tinged romp seemingly guided by Donovan. With all these apparent influences are we to assume Banhart has any originality to his work? If a feeling could testify or if the soul could speak we might have the answer to this question.
With his mysterious beard, all too perfect birth name, and garments that every flower child only dreamed of, he is fully capable of being the god to the bohemian children, new and old, looking for any remnant of a time when music was powerful, enduring, and transformative. They are pleading for him to “braid exotic birds” in their hair.
Is he an innovator? Is he a sonic scientist? Some skeptics say 'no', while other critics and listeners are rejoicing. Perhaps he was a boy who, through his masks, found the key to the kingdom.
Which leaves us asking ourselves: Have we found our musical savior? Or a false prophet?
Read. Listen. Let your soul speak.
"Let's drink a toast to that same old feeling"
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