I Love That Man

Devendra Banhart · Cripple Crow [2005]

I love that man when he's on stage

I hear bad things in a good way

And how I thank you all the time

So don't refuse this thank you of mine

And I arrive at your feet in peace

And I spend my time as I please

And I can't stop light from shining in

My goddamn breath keeps breathing

And at your end and your leaving

May you have no sin worth grieving

And I hope that I can someday ask

Something new to you at last

Now you talk, I'll pour

And our nearness grows

And when I'm bored, I'll let you know

This black ink cross that's on our palms

Let's keep them on

And never wash them off

It ain't for God, it's just for us

Once my friend but never again

And once we're dead, we never end

We never end, we never end, we never end

I Love That Man

Devendra Banhart's "I Love That Man" serves as a quintessential example of his early indie-folk and alternative country style, appearing on the 2005 album *Cripple Crow*. The track showcases Banhart's signature vocal delivery, characterized by a nasal, conversational tone that blends seamlessly with acoustic instrumentation. Released during a pivotal period in his career, the song reflects the raw, unpolished aesthetic that defined his discography in the mid-2000s. It captures the essence of his work as a singer-songwriter who prioritizes lyrical honesty and atmospheric soundscapes over conventional production. The recording stands as a testament to his ability to evoke intimacy and nostalgia, resonating with listeners who appreciate the lo-fi textures and folk-rock roots that permeate his catalog.