What does Native sound like?

Anthemic pop rock fused with introspective lyrics and an energetic blend of electronic and acoustic elements. Rooted in alternative rock and pop rock. Start with "Counting Stars".

Is Native a good place to start with OneRepublic?

Yes, Native is recommended as a starting point for new OneRepublic listeners. Anthemic pop rock fused with introspective lyrics and an energetic blend of electronic and acoustic elements. When 'Native' was released in 2013, OneRepublic was building on the commercial success of their previous album, 'Waking Up' (2009). This third studio album marked a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a more polished production and a willingness to experiment with different musical styles. The lead single, 'Counting Stars,' became a defining track for the band, solidifying their place in mainstream pop.

Native works well if you're into uplifting anthems for motivation, dynamic journey with reflective moments and for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Native?

Native has 17 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.

Native

OneRepublic · 2013

66 min · 17 tracks · alternative rock

Anthemic pop rock fused with introspective lyrics and an energetic blend of electronic and acoustic elements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Counting Stars Start here — This track encapsulates the album's spirit with its catchy chorus and themes of pursuing dreams over materialism, making it a cultural anthem of its time.
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I Lived — The song stands out for its uplifting message about embracing life’s challenges and experiences, resonating deeply with listeners seeking motivation.
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Feel Again — With its infectious energy and hopeful lyrics, this track exemplifies the album's focus on emotional connection and the joy of being alive.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The album showcases polished production and energetic songwriting but lacks strong cohesion due to its length and bonus tracks.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a high energy level with anthemic choruses, while the subsequent tracks gradually introduce more introspective themes.
Several songs feature layered instrumentation that blends electronic beats with acoustic elements, creating a dynamic soundscape.
The album includes three acoustic versions of earlier tracks, which shift the mood and provide a contrast to the original arrangements.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

uplifting anthems for motivation
dynamic journey with reflective moments
for sing-alongs
energetic tracks for road trips
acoustic versions for quiet introspection

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
dislike acoustic reinterpretations

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established wider recognition with the hit 'Counting Stars' and polished sound.
Themes: self-empowerment· vibrant optimism· life's fleeting moments
Moods: Uplifting· Introspective
Career context: When 'Native' was released in 2013, OneRepublic was building on the commercial success of their previous album, 'Waking Up' (2009). This third studio album marked a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a more polished production and a willingness to experiment with different musical styles. The lead single, 'Counting Stars,' became a defining track for the band, solidifying their place in mainstream pop.
Stylistic neighbors: Coldplay· The Fray· Imagine Dragons