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Trying a new feature where we discuss and go into some detail about a specific @localnatives song. Here's a thread for what I feel has become a somewhat underappreciated tune, but IMO is absolutely vital in Local Natives' catalog.
SONG SPOTLIGHT: "Breakers"
SONG SPOTLIGHT: "Breakers"
For those not following LN closely at the time, "Breakers" was the first single released from their highly anticipated 2nd album, "Hummingbird". On October 12, 2012, @localnatives announced their new album and tour, and officially released "Breakers".
There was a lot of hype for new LN music in the indie world. Gorilla Manor was a very successful debut and widely loved by music critics. After "Breakers" was released, Pitchfork quickly named it Best New Track: https://pitchfork.com/reviews/tracks/14468-local-natives-breakers/
Personally, I had become a huge LN fan around early 2010. I saw them live 5 or 6 times afterwards, and couldn't have been more excited for their new single. "Breakers" was familiar and different and exciting. It quickly affirmed this band was here to stay.
With the familiar harmonies, "oohs" and hand claps, "Breakers" felt like a natural evolution. But the production, lyrics and tone also hinted at a band moving in a different direction. It was the perfect lead single for Hummingbird IMO. And unsurprisingly, they crushed it live.
I'd like to highlight @matthewjfrazier's drumming on Breakers (and for that matter, the entire Hummingbird album). Such creative and interesting work that needs more attention. Watch this clip again and focus on Matt. He's so fucking good.
IMO what makes "Breakers" amazing is the instrumentation deftly compliments the song meaning. Pangs of electric guitar, frenetic percussion, Taylor's calming vocals, and massive buildup at the end. The entire composition encapsulates the mindset when dealing with extreme anxiety.
As a longtime Local Natives fan, "Breakers" will always be a special song to me. And it was memorable to watch it all unfold in real time.
And I'll leave you with this: they performed it on LETTERMAN. How cool is that! (full video here: )
And I'll leave you with this: they performed it on LETTERMAN. How cool is that! (full video here: )
