What Will We Be
Devendra Banhart · 2009
50 min · 14 tracks · folk music
A whimsical blend of folk and rock, infused with playful melodies and introspective lyrics that evoke a sense of wanderlust.
Top tracks — play these first
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Can’t Help but Smiling — This opening track sets the album's tone with its infectious melody and upbeat tempo, encapsulating the joyous spirit that runs throughout.
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Angelika — A standout moment, this song features lush instrumentation and introspective lyrics that capture Banhart's signature blend of whimsy and depth.
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Maria Lionza — This track combines elements of Venezuelan folklore with modern folk-rock, highlighting Banhart's cultural roots while showcasing his unique artistic vision.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends playful melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing strong arrangements and a whimsical folk-rock sound.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a bright, upbeat track that sets a playful tone, followed by a series of mid-tempo songs that maintain this whimsical feel.
- Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, including strings and woodwinds, which add depth and texture to the arrangements.
- The final three tracks slow down significantly, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the earlier energy.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dreamlike soundscape exploration
- whimsical, introspective moments
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2009, What Will We Be is Devendra Banhart's sixth studio album, following his critically acclaimed record, Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon. At this point in his career, Banhart was establishing himself as a prominent figure within the indie folk scene, celebrated for his eclectic style and lyrical storytelling.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Sufjan Stevens· Iron & Wine· José González
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Can’t Help but Smiling 2:25
- 2 Angelika 3:24
- 3 Baby 3:07
- 4 Goin’ Back 3:44
- 5 First Song for B 3:00
- 6 Last Song for B 3:02
- 7 Chin Chin & Muck Muck 5:25
- 8 16th & Valencia Roxy Music 3:00
- 9 Rats 5:08
- 10 Maria Lionza 5:51
- 11 Brindo 3:43
- 12 Meet Me at Lookout Point 3:41
- 13 Walilamdzi 2:12
- 14 Foolin’ 2:43
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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