#LocalNativesIndie celebrates the Los Angeles indie rock band Local Natives, whose three-part harmonies, intricate arrangements, and anthemic songwriting on albums like Gorilla Manor (2009) made them festival favorites and exemplars of late-2000s harmony-driven indie rock.
Gorilla Manor Debut (2009)
Local Natives’ debut Gorilla Manor (November 2009) on Frenchkiss Records showcased their signature sound: three vocalists (Taylor Rice, Kelcey Ayer, Ryan Hahn) trading leads and harmonies, propulsive drumming, and emotionally direct lyrics. “Wide Eyes,” “Airplanes,” and “Sun Hands” became indie radio staples. Recorded in their Silver Lake house (the titular Gorilla Manor), the album captured their youthful energy. Pitchfork gave it a 7.8 rating. The band’s harmonies recalled Fleet Foxes, but their rock energy distinguished them from folk-leaning peers.
Hummingbird Maturation (2013)
Hummingbird (January 2013) processed Ayer’s mother’s death with more subdued production. National’s Aaron Dessner produced, bringing atmospheric textures. While more somber than the debut, songs like “Heavy Feet” and “Breakers” maintained their harmonic complexity. The album debuted at #12 on Billboard 200, proving their growing audience.
Later Evolution
Sunlit Youth (2016) embraced electronic elements and political themes. Violet Street (2019) continued their sonic evolution. While never achieving mainstream success, Local Natives maintained a devoted following and remained festival circuit regulars. The hashtag documented their evolution from harmony-focused indie rock to more experimental territory while preserving their core identity.