Post-punk/post-hardcore has been through many transitions over the years and despite somewhat misleading and tired genre names, a plethora of diverse and influential bands have all been lumped under these banners. In recent years though these respective genres have splintered into either spazzy math rock that focuses on technical proficiency (often to the detriment of the actual song) and blatantly derivative copycats. That’s where Native’s excellent new album steps in. Orthodox is a lean, powerful and focused effort that sees Native coming into their own voice and stepping away from many of the modern doldrums of post-punk.
The first time listening to Orthodox I was 4 songs in before I realized they were different songs. There are no real standouts. This is actually one of the albums greatest strengths. The songs twist and fold over each other with precision and intent. Falling action at the end of a song doubles as the intro for the next seamlessly and there is no mistaking that this is a singular work not simply a collection of songs. At just 29 minutes Native never allows Orthodox to get long winded or overstay its welcome and they are all the better for knowing how to edit themselves efficiently.
Musically Native has mastered the use of space and restraint. While there is plenty of interlocking, complex guitar work and bellowed vocals throughout Orthodox they are strengthened and defined by the moments of quiet and stillness around them. Native has always been a tight and dynamic band but they have grown to use time and dynamic changes in a more subtle and cohesive way. Nothing about any of the dramatic shifts in tone or tempo feel forced or contrived, which is particularly impressive given the myriad of changes that happen throughout each track.
The production on Orthodox is simple and outstanding. The guitars crackle and clang like the best of the 90’s noise bands when it’s loud and whisper and sing when it’s quiet. The vocals have and understated melody and are mixed down in the music so as not to overpower everything else but still be audible. The bass tone holds the whole thing together by providing a constant backbone and occasionally carries all of the heaviness. The drumming is, simply put, remarkable. The best thing about all these different elements is how cohesive they all sound together. It sounds like a band playing their hearts out in a room, but still retains the crispness and clarity of a studio recording.
Orthodox is so well put together I would recommend it to people who love music even those who aren’t necessarily fans of the genre (whatever that may be). Like all really good albums it takes a few listens to truly be absorbed but the investment of time is worth it. It may not have a definable single but it’ll stick in your head if you let it.
