It's been a long time coming but finally Natives' debut album Indoor War is officially out. The idea the five piece had in mind was of logic verses emotions based upon a character called Alvima who suffers a great loss. With the concept being one that is relatable to every listener they are already opening themselves up to expand The Tribe even further and with just one play through of the 11 track album its more than obvious that these guys are going to heading for amazing things.
'War Inside Of Me' is a piano led opener that builds into a signature Natives style anthem that is sure to become a staple to every future set list with plenty of opportunity for crowd participation. It's a strong start and an indicator as to where the rest of the album takes us. Tracks released on EP's in the build up to their debut, such as the infectiously catchy 'This Island' and the somewhat groovy 'Going In Alone,' make a reappearance amongst new tracks packed with big choruses, intricate guitars and explosive drumming.
One of the highlights to this solid pop-rock effort is 'Can't Say No' which boasts a hell of a guitar pattern that will remain permanently etched into your mind and no doubt it's one you'll catch yourself humming. Jim Thomas' vocals shine here with the bridge sung in a stunning high key rocketing into that unforgettable chorus. The uncertainty described in 'Let Go' is matched with slightly darker music before the decision to just, well, let go in the soaring chorus.There's a uniqueness to the way that they make even the sadder topics sound upbeat and hopeful.
Different yet to anything else on the album 'L.O.V.E.' is a slower heartfelt track with gorgeous backing harmonies on the second half of the song where it intensifies and turns into one of those astronomic anthems we've learnt to know and love. The very first Natives song we heard after the demise of Not Advised, 'Big Plans' fits right in with the rest of Indoor War with the charged drumming making this a lively number.
An interlude precedes 'The Horizon' which is fast becoming my favourite song on this first-class debut. The gang vocals and snappy drumming that open the song are impossible not to do a little dance to and inspire a new sense of effervescence on this already mostly spirited album. From the first riff on 'Ghost' you expect a slower song to emerge and wrongly so. After Jim's vocals kick in its all a go with a sassy note to the lyrics,"well how many times, do I have to tell you twice?" 'For Everything' closes the album fittingly with a knockout chorus and pulling all the alluring pop-rock goodness into their final blast.
Indoor War is a fun adventure perfect for a summers day with undeniable mass appeal, Transmission were certainly clever in adding the talented quintet to their roster. If this is only the beginning i'm intrigued and excited for the future of the UK's dark horse who have crashed onto the scene with a monumental bang.
No comments:
Post a Comment