Native 'Orthodox'

Listening to the opening track of Orthodox, the latest album by post-hardcore group Native, you think that you’re about to grapple with something special. On ‘Word City’, a woozy, melancholic chord progression gives way to a furious rockfest, the lead guitar interlocking perfectly with the crunchy chords. The result is both thrilling and emotive.
Sadly, Native fail to deliver any innovation on the rest of the LP. Each song is a variation on that wonderful opener, with fluctuating levels of success – to the extent that it feels formulaic. It’s a shame, as the album has its share of magical moments. However, it lacks the ingenuity and diversity required to make it truly memorable. Native can write a good song, it’s just a pity they feel the need to repeat it, over and over.

Key Track: 'Word City'