Band To Watch: Local Natives

Local Natives have been compared to Arcade Fire, Beirut, Grizzly Bear and Broken Social Scene with the vocal harmonies of Fleet Foxes. Each and every one of these comparisons have some truth in them.

For half a year the band spent lots of time in a two bedroom house in California. During this time songs were written and recorded leading to their debut album Gorilla Manor (set for an early 2009 release). Three of the band members sing sharing harmonies and lead vocals. Band members often engage in switching of positions and their own instruments. They invite friends and fans to provide some extra percussion. The sharing of harmonies calls out for references to Grizzly Bear and Fleet Foxes.

Local Natives are a band that put on an energetic live show that you need to experience live. When reading their bio something stood out to me right away: “Local Natives is one of those rare bands who is defined by their ability to deliver live. In fact, it has been more of a challenge for the group to translate the vibrant and exciting nature of their performances to a recording than vice versa.”

They have received media attention from MTVU and this winter they are going on the first full national tour. I plan to check out one of their NYC shows in January. Check out some tour dates and the mp3 of Airplanes. The song is incredible. These guys will make a name for themselves in the upcoming year, keep an eye out:

[mp3] : Local Natives – Airplanes
[mp3] : Local Natives – Warning Sign (Talking Heads Cover)

Local Natives Myspace

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