LA indie rock outfit Local Natives return with their sophomore album, Hummingbird, the follow-up to their critically acclaimed 2010 debut, Gorilla Manor. While on tour with The National in 2011, the Local Natives teamed-up with The National’s guitarist Aaron Dessner, and the collaboration pushed them into new territory with a newfound energy, upbeat melodies and playfulness. Favorite tracks include: the shining opener “You & I” which features electronic drums beats washed in warm organs, surf rock guitar and harmonies; the melodic and upbeat title track; “Heavy Feet” with handclaps, sparse arrangements, prominent snare beats and catchy choruses; and “Colombia”, a tender song that commemorates the unexpected passing of a band member’s mother with a simple choral lamentation surrounded by beautiful orchestral qualities. For many this will definitely be one of the most anticipated and enjoyable albums to start 2013. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | Foals, Freelance Whales, Grizzly Bear, The Morning Benders, Youth Lagoon