Devendra Banhart

There’s always been a confidence and swagger about Banhart live, seemingly at odds with his often quiet, cooing tones on his alt-folk records. Opening by himself on a smooth reverbed guitar, he went through some fan-favourites like ‘The Body Breaks’ and ‘Little Yellow Spider’ then welcomed his band on stage who played superbly. Fab Moretti of The Strokes leant his signature shuffling rhythms and fills, and the backing guitars sounded lush and velvety. Devendra’s also a fantastic showman and vocalist, careering around the stage and endearing himself warmly to the hugely appreciative crowd. A melodic, charming and memorable evening.

The Old Market, 28 June 2013
Rating:
Joe Fuller