What makes Gorilla Manor by Local Natives notable?

Gorilla Manor received critical acclaim upon its release, with Rolling Stone praising its inventive blending of genres. The album's success helped solidify the band's place in the burgeoning indie rock scene, influencing later acts with its rich vocal harmonies and introspective lyrics. When Local Natives released Gorilla Manor in November 2009, they were still fresh on the indie scene with this being their debut album. The band had gained early recognition from their EP, which set the stage for this full-length effort to showcase their unique sound and lyrical depth.

Who is Gorilla Manor for?

Gorilla Manor works well if you're into youthful exuberance and introspection, vibrant harmonies for group listening and uplifting energy for road trips.

How many songs are on Gorilla Manor?

Gorilla Manor has 18 tracks, running approximately 78 minutes.

Gorilla Manor

Local Natives · 2009

78 min · 18 tracks · indie rock

A vibrant blend of harmonies and intricate rhythms that evoke the warmth of communal living and the complexities of human connection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Wide Eyes — Opening the album, this track establishes the band's signature layered harmonies and syncopated rhythms, creating an infectious energy that draws listeners in immediately.
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Airplanes — This track showcases a more reflective side of the band, featuring poignant lyrics about longing and connection, complemented by soaring vocal arrangements.
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World News — With its driving beat and catchy chorus, this song addresses themes of uncertainty and hope, becoming a standout anthem for listeners navigating life's unpredictability.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album features strong compositions and engaging harmonies but lacks some cohesion due to its length and bonus tracks.

What we noticed

The first four tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fifth introduces a more complex rhythmic structure.
Vocal harmonies are layered throughout, often featuring call-and-response patterns that create a communal feel.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

youthful exuberance and introspection
vibrant harmonies for group listening
uplifting energy for road trips
reflective moments in nature
engaging rhythms for social gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid lengthy, cohesive albums

Where this album fits

Career context: When Local Natives released Gorilla Manor in November 2009, they were still fresh on the indie scene with this being their debut album. The band had gained early recognition from their EP, which set the stage for this full-length effort to showcase their unique sound and lyrical depth.
Stylistic neighbors: Fleet Foxes· Grizzly Bear· The War on Drugs