It’s been nearly three long years since LA four-piece Local Natives were catapulted to global acclaim on the back of their stunning debut, Gorilla Manor.
Luckily, Hummingbird is definitely worth the wait.
Both the lyrics and instrumentation are heavier, but the trademark soaring harmonies are still displayed prominently throughout.
Opener ‘You & I’ offers a brooding and slowly developing introduction, immediately signalling the new direction that’s to come, with producer Aaron Dessner’s (of The National) influence already obvious, while ‘Black Balloons’ perfectly typifies this new sound: it’s more complex, darker, and heavier, but it still manages to be upbeat and thoroughly enjoyable.
‘Heavy Feet’ is a vintage Local Natives tune with an edge, featuring an impossibly catchy chorus, a driving beat, and jangly, restrained guitar work.
Despite the undeniable hooks, the song also displays the newfound maturity and serious approach to songwriting, adding a new layer to the band’s sound.
Previously released first single ‘Breakers’ is the most upbeat moment of the album, featuring an abundance of hand claps, an explosive chorus, and jittery, hyperactive guitar lines.
‘Mt. Washington’ is another step away from the ‘old’ Local Natives sound, based around a strumming acoustic guitar and fleeting piano lines.
‘Columbia’ is by far the most emotional song the band have written. Written following the death of a band member’s mother, it’s a heavy-hitting love letter from a son to a parent, with brutally honest lyrics of “Everyday I ask myself / Am I loving enough?”.
The song slowly builds from sombre piano beginnings to a dense and powerful end, complemented by fragile and vulnerable lyrics.
Hummingbird is definitely a grower. It’s only with repeated listens that it’s intricacies and subtle elements are understood, and fully appreciated, but if it’s given the time and the care, the album is more than worth it.
This is Local Natives at their most self-assured, effortlessly intricate, and harmony-filled best. Maintaining elements of the old while also building a new and more dense sound, creating a record that only improves on repeated listens, continually rewarding the attentive listener.
Local Natives are touring Australia in May, dates and details here.
