Oh My Rockness

Barely in his 20's, Devendra Banhart has already lived a lifetime. Once a homeless San Francisco wanderer, Banhart would make crude home recordings showcasing his quivering distinctive voice, somehow reminiscent of ages ago. Banhart moved to New York City where he lived one night at a time in whatever housing he could find. Only recently, after the success of his multiple tours through the U.S. and Europe, has he found a permanent home.

Banhart sings twisted, whimsical, utterly sincere tales, and his acoustic guitar accompaniment showcases his amazing finger picking skills. Truly a free and independent spirit, Devendra Banhart deserves to be heard. For him, though, it seems not to matter; he'll sing for himself 'til the songs run dry. Let's hope that never happens.

Published 08/24/04