Originally published in The Buzzworthy in March.  

Local Natives has yet to produce a song that isn’t impressive. With their new album Hummingbird (released Jan. 29), Local Natives moves up on my list of favorite bands. They should on yours, too.

The first track, “You and I,” features much of lead singer Kelcey Ayer’s beautiful falsetto. It doesn’t sound forced or misplaced; the higher notes pair perfectly with Ryan Hahn’s mandolin.

Their lyrics are short and simple. Ayer sings, “When did your love, when did your love go cold? / The closer I get, the farther I have to go.” The repetition of the lyrics doesn’t get boring. If anything, the repeating lines get better each time Ayer sings them.

The next track, “Heavy Feet,” is the album’s most popular song. Listen for Matt Frazier’s percussion work behind Ayer’s sweet voice. His rhythm is flawless and perfectly complements the clapping of his band mates.

Listen for equally-as-energetic song “Breakers” several tracks down from “Heavy Feet.” To accompany upbeat instrumentals, the chorus (“Breathing out hoping to breathe in / I know nothing’s wrong but I’m not convinced”) features soft “Ooh ooh”s in the background.

Ayer’s finest singing can be heard on track six. With only eight lines in the entire song, his falsetto croons, “I’m letting you know I’m ready to feel you” for the chorus.

If you’re looking for another upbeat song, “Wooly Mammoth” should satisfy.

But, if you’re itching for the mellow side of Local Natives, “Ceilings” is this album’s equivalent of “Who Knows Who Cares” from their first album. Ayer’s falsetto comes in again with the chorus: “Silver dreams bring me to you.”

The best part about Local Natives is the simplicity of their lyrics. Most of their songs are very short and sweet, expressing what they want through small, albeit meaningful, lines.

They carry their signature sound in “Black Balloons;” a song reminiscent of Gorilla Manor’s “Airplanes.”

The message in a very calming “Colombia” is one everyone can relate to. Ayer sings, “Every night I ask myself / am I loving enough?”

Hummingbird is worth every penny. If you give Local Natives a listen and they suit your fancy, buy both of their albums. This up-and-coming Alternative band deserves to reach fame.  (5/5)