Harmonic Reinforcement

Local Natives have a different theory on music than most, it seems. With no frontman, the group is completely based on harmonies. Three members of the band, Kelcey Ayer, Ryan Hahn and Taylor Rice have no problem multi tasking.  They create perfect harmonies through out the album Gorilla Manor.  The guys in Local Native have figured out where their success lies. It’s in simple instruments and chords but with lyrical and singing abilities that make this an extraordinary piece of work.

From start to finish, this is a defiantly unique way to looking at music. Tweaking everything possible and adding their strange and unparalled talents, Gorilla Manor commences with “Wide Eyes.” A slow and seductive guitar gradually proceeds to bring in drums and then the first glimpse of harmonies. Added “ohhh’s” in the background create the ideal setting for this innovative ensemble. It seems like the more of a risk they take, the better it is.

“Sun Hands” is the perfect use of a three-part harmony, with elegant lyrics demonstrating that these boys know exactly what they are talking about: “And when I can feel with my sun hands/ I’ll promise not to lose her again/ And even if the morning never comes/ My hands are blessed to have touched the sun.” Local Natives make it a point to hear each and every piece of music they create from tribal chants to slow drum solos, rattling and dragging you in. It is their defining piece that separates them from similar bands like Grizzly Bear that use the same choir sounds.

Local Natives are one of the few bands who can pull this off without sounding like a high school band gone wrong. They are actually at their best when all 5 members sing together, like in “World News.” They have a unity that shows in the music and they are polished and precise. All of their collaborative efforts make Gorilla Manor an astonishing album.