Devendra Banhart - Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon

Smokey Rolls Down Thunder Canyon is Devendra Banhart’s fifth studio album, released on September 25, 2007 by XL Recordings.

Recorded at his home studio in Topanga Canyon, California, the album blends a rich mix of musical styles — folk, gospel, reggae, pop‑soul, Latin influences and other exotic sounds — showcasing his willingness to experiment and diversify his sonic palette. The lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, surrounding a difficult period in his life marked by a breakup, touching on loss, loneliness and the need to make a fresh start. Stand‑out tracks include “Seahorse”, an epic over eight minutes that shifts between quiet and electric moments; “Cristobal”, sung in Spanish; “Saved”, with gospel influences; and the closing track “My Dearest Friend”, featuring Vashti Bunyan. The album is ambitious yet vulnerable; long in duration, but holding emotional coherence and an evocative atmosphere. It’s well suited for listeners who enjoy music that stretches beyond conventional genre boundaries.