I’ve been wanting to re-post this review since the day Gorilla Manor was released in the UK months ago. Finally, the day has arrived! This is one of the strongest debut albums I have heard since Vampire Weekend’s self-titled effort in 2008. It’s straight up glorious indie rock music with zany hooks, addicting drum beats, and warm lyrics.

I first got wind of the Local Natives this past September when one of my coworkers at MTV passed me a demo CD from the band. I took it home, and listened to it all the way through a couple times (ok, definitely more than that). Their sound is unique and highly addicting. They’re not one of those bands that you need to be in a certain mood to listen to.

A product of southern California, Local Natives have found a strong following in the UK. Within my first few weeks of work, their name seemed to come up wherever I was. Good music at MTV? Yes, we have that too you haters!

So what’s to expect from these rising stars? This group’s the real thing, and will gain the attention they deserve. Gorilla Manor is filled with contagious melodies suitable for all ages (as if you were concerned). “Stranger Things”, “Warning Sign”, “Camera Talk”, “World News”, and “Airplanes” are all absolutely AMAZING songs that will undoubtedly get some airtime.

This is the first time since I began rating albums that I will be handing out a 5 out of 5 rating. This is not a common feat, and will not happen often, but this album deserves it. Great harmonies and killer drums are perfectly accented by subtle guitar, piano, and bass. Their album is set to be released on February 16th. Buy, listen, and achieve nirvana.