I’ve seen Local Natives live several times now, and I’ve enjoyed each show so much that they’ve attained a status as one of my favorite acts to see live. Their performances reflect their dedication and ethos. Local Natives doesn’t undertake tasks haphazardly or carelessly. They don’t traffic in the world of EPs. The band released their debut, Gorilla Manor, and toured extensively behind it, accumulating praise and esteem until they unveiled the carefully crafted work of art that was their follow-up, Hummingbird. Their sophomore album did see a few single releases, but most of the band’s energy seems to go into touring, and it shows.
Live, Local Natives sound more attuned to the recorded versions of their songs than any other band I’ve seen in recent memory. These renditions are impeccably rendered and played with emphatic energy. Their show at ACL Live last year was magnificent. And although I went into the Stubb’s show wondering if they’d be able to retain that outstanding audio quality, the set did not fall short in the least; accolades are in order for the band’s immaculate artistry and whoever’s running sound over at Stubb’s.
Perhaps the band’s impressive cohesiveness can be attributed to the fact that their setlist hasn’t changed much and the material that comprises it, although solid and stalwart, is culled from only two efforts. These facts allow the band to focus on their dynamic stage presence and sharpening of the songs they perform. Onstage, both Taylor Rice and Kelcey Ayer both belt out lyrics as they dance in sharp jilting movements to their own angular guitar riffs and explosive rhythms. The setlist last night at Stubb’s consisted of most of the songs the band has ever released, including standouts “Breakers,” “Ceilings,” “Columbia,” and epic closer “Sun Hands.” The night also included a special performance of Johnny Cash’s “Out Among the Stars,” and we were told it was the first time the band had performed it live. Local Natives’ Austin date sold out quickly, and it make sense; next time around, don’t hesitate to grab tickets to see this band.
Opener Moses Sumney is out on tour for several dates on Local Natives’ current tour. Sumney emerged onstage as the sun lingered in the sky for its final minutes of the day, and introduced himself unassumingly before moving into his set. Sumney’s songs use his voice as the primary weapon. Jazzy guitar chords meander around a sonic palate developed by a series of vocal loops laid down in progression. The songs incorporate African rhythms and borrow from the a cappella style common to tribal music. However, there’s something distinctly modern and avant-garde about Sumney’s show. As a modern point of reference, there were several times when I was reminded of Alt-J’s style, although Sumney’s arrangements are far more mellow and sparse. To be sure, the guy has distinct talent, and the crowd was clearly impressed and enthusiastic, if a little lulled by the subdued opening performance.
Check out photos of the night below. All images © Bryan Parker & Pop Press International. Click any image to open in slideshow viewer.
