Devendra Banhart — What Will We Be

Devendra Banhart's sixth studio album and major label debut is very similar to his earlier releases, but it's markedly different at the same time.

Firstly, it's still all over the place. "Goin' Back" could be performed at some mellowed out hippie gathering circa '67, while "First Song For B" is a soft, wistful number about love, much like Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon's "I Remember." "16th & Valencia, Roxy Music" and "Rats" also sound like that record's Led Zeppelin/Tropicalia inspired "Seahorse."

But there's a difference throughout many of the songs: they're quieter, a bit more subdued and one can't help but feel like Banhart is holding some of his craziness back. Basically, think of this album as a less insane, calmer version of Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon with the same backing band, and songs that aren't quite as good.

So while What Will We Be might not be Banhart's best disc overall, it's still an interesting listen from a lovably wacky guy.

Get it from