Local Natives | Time Will Wait For No One Review

A Transformation in Harmony: An Intimate Journey through Local Natives’ ‘Time Will Wait For No One

by Bea Willis

Local Natives hail from Los Angeles, a city steeped in a rich musical history that unmistakably influences their sound. The band consists of Taylor Rice on vocals and guitar, Kelcey Ayer on vocals, keyboards, percussion, and guitar, Ryan Hahn on guitar and keyboards, Matt Frazier on drums, and Nik Ewing on bass and keyboards. Each member lends their unique talent and perspective, forming a distinctively Local Natives sound.

In their fifth studio album, Time Will Wait For No One, the band unveils a significant evolution in their sound and narrative. Recorded in various historic LA studios, the band collaborated closely with Grammy award-winning producer John Congleton, renowned for his work with artists like Angel Olsen, Death Cab For Cutie, St. Vincent, and Sharon Van Etten.

From the very first track, “Time Will Wait For No One,” there is a noticeable shift in their sound. The opening track, a far cry from the traditional ‘statement’ opener, captures the evolution of the band’s four-part vocal harmonies, transitioning beautifully from what sounds like a raw rehearsal recording to a fully-produced, polished studio sound. It’s a refreshing beginning, like catching a glimpse of the metamorphosis in the midst of occurring.

“Just Before The Morning” is a warm and uplifting reminder of their signature SoCal harmony style. It’s an indication of the band’s songwriting expertise, as each section of the song’s form is carefully crafted with textural and vocal changes and painting a sonic story. By the song’s end, you feel like you’ve been on an enriching journey.

“Empty Mansions” echoes with the band’s unmistakable lush harmonies and intricate melodies. The repeating ending, where vocal harmonies beautifully intertwine, is a perfect example of their meticulous craftsmanship. It’s a well-written song showing the band’s hallmark sounds and experimental production elements.

“Desert Snow,” shows the chemistry between the vocals of Taylor Rice and Kelcey Ayer, is a well-crafted piece teeming with varied textures. Rice and Ayer’s clear and soulful vocals feel like a breeze floating above a desert, perfectly matching the song’s soaring melody.

The standout track, “Paper Lanterns,” sets itself apart through a confluence of influences and styles. The track introduces a moody rock undercurrent and an active bassline that pulls from funk and R&B. The hallmark Local Natives style is beautifully captured in the duet harmonies of Taylor Rice and Kelcey Ayer, their voices weaving together in an intimate dance. The song’s complexity extends with rich, atmospheric synth textures adding depth and dimension, further underscoring the band’s sonic evolution. A noteworthy instrumental interlude offers an appreciative pause, allowing the listener to bask in the musical conversation amongst the instruments. All these elements coalesce in “Paper Lanterns,” making it a testament to the band’s unique ability to blend genres, evolve their sound, and yet remain quintessentially themselves.

And then there’s “NYE,” born out of an unforgettable performance at Ryan Hahn’s wedding, where the band covered The Strokes’ “Someday.” The song, upbeat and lively, carries this charged memory within its electronic veins. Reverb-drenched vocals hover over a web of oscillating guitar parts, while Hahn’s evocative guitar solo adds a colorful depth to the song’s harmonic progression.

Through every track on Time Will Wait For No One, Local Natives offers a piece of themselves, inviting us into their evolving narrative and sound. The band, matured and transformed, stands tall in this musical landscape, their hearts beating in unison with every rhythm and lyric.

Time Will Wait For No One

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Label: Loma Vista Recordings

Release Date: July 7, 2023

About the author

Bea Willis

Author

With an unwavering passion for music that began at the tender age of five, I embarked on a journey of self-expression through the piano, later expanding my repertoire to the guitar and the art of singing. As a seasoned performer in cozy coffee shops and harmonious choir ensembles, I've immersed myself in the diverse tapestry of musical genres, seeking to uncover the intricate qualities that strike a chord within our souls.

Beyond my personal experiences, my journalistic pursuits have led me to explore the stories and inspirations behind the melodies we hold dear. As a music journalist, I aim to delve into the heart of each composition, shedding light on the creative minds that have shaped the soundscape of our lives.

In my downtime, you can find me serenading my loyal canine companion with heartfelt tunes on the guitar or indulging in retail therapy to enhance my ever-growing wardrobe. Songwriting holds a special place in my heart, and I yearn for the day when I can share my creative talents with the world. Until then, my passion for uncovering the emotional power within music continues to drive my insightful reviews and analyses, as I journey through the rich landscape of melodies that move us.