This album does a fantastic job at creating diverse tracks and keeping their sound interesting.
This little known band is releasing their second full length album at the end of 2014, which is a bummer because End-of-the-Year lists will likely look over this gem. Overall, this album displays a lofi approach to a very retro indie sound. This album fluctuates back and forth from the psychedelic to the slacker, while remaining relatively chill and happy. Not quite as garage rock as Thee Oh Sees but still in the same vain. This band captures the essence of ‘60s and ‘70s pop while still containing fresh and original indie characteristics of present day.
The intro track, “Rabo,” starts the album off right with surfer guitar riffs and lots of garage-esque reverberation. This is a groovy track that features a very psychedelic feel. The album switches pace with the next track, “Dance With Me.” This track is upbeat, catchy, fast paced, and full of the maximum amount of energy. The vocal energy is at Julian Casablanca levels.
The third track, “Like A Dream,” brings in the very obvious late ‘60s pop influence. Keeping with this vibe is the sixth track, “Digital Lobotomy.” It is extremely sunny with the energy heard previously in “Dance With Me.” There are parts where you hear a very distinct 1950s ballad guitar tone that are then contrasted with modern indie tones.
“All About You,” is another great track that has a hint of Beatles For Sale mixed with the surf sounds of the Beach Boys and topped with the vocals harmonies the Zombies were known for. This song pulls together several elements of pop through the years and then polishes it with their own twist. The track that follows, “What’s On Your Mind?” has a strong resemblance to late ‘70s power pop artists such as Nick Lowe and Elvis Costello.
The Last track ends the album with an easy going break up ballad. “Caroline” finishes this complicated album with a simple rhythm and melody. The vocals are soft and compassionately breaking up with Caroline because, well, as the lyrics go, “the feelings are fleeting.”
When you pick apart each song you can find an interesting influence from the past and present, but with the construction of all of these elements, Native America found a way to make it completely their own. Modern indie groups such as the Strokes, Alvvays, Wavves, Mac Demarco, and the Shins all have their small similarities to this band just as old pop artists such as The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Zombies, and more have their likeness as well. This album does a fantastic job at creating diverse tracks and keeping their sound interesting.
Recommended If You Like: Mac DeMarco, Wavves, Alvvays, and The Zombie
Recommended Tracks: “Dance With Me,” “All About You,” “Digital Lobotomy,” and “Rabo”
Reviewed by Rachel on December 4, 2014