Local Natives

Local Natives

Local Natives is an indie rock group from Silver Lake, Los Angeles, and is also known as Cavil at Rest. The band forms in 2003 and is active from that point onward. Its members are Kelcey Ayer, Ryan Hahn, Taylor Rice, Andy Hamm, Matthew Frazier and Nik Ewing, although the lineup changes over time.

Formation and early work

The three founding members meet in high school before a bassist and drummer are added. In 2008, the group moves into a house in Silver Lake to record its debut album. The band first draws wider attention after playing nine shows at the 2009 SXSW festival in Austin, Texas.

Albums and releases

Local Natives’ debut album as Local Natives, Gorilla Manor, is released in the UK through Infectious Records and later appears in the United States on Frenchkiss. The band’s second album, Hummingbird, follows in 2013 and includes the single “Breakers”.

Sound and style

The group’s music is described as indie rock and pop rock, with references to indie pop and folk as well as freak folk. Its sound uses layered vocal harmonies, drifting melodies and intricate arrangements. It is also characterised by Afropop-influenced guitar work, energetic drumming and three-part harmonies, and is compared in style to Arcade Fire, Fleet Foxes, Vampire Weekend and Grizzly Bear.

Line-up change

Andy Hamm leaves the band in 2011, after which Local Natives continue as a quartet.