Written by: Hillary Straba

From Valdosta, the New Natives are raising the bar for local music.

The local band released their first full-length, self-titled album in December.

The band was founded by Jeffrey Haineault, junior computer science major, who was the former drummer for the band Ninja Gun.

In 2011, Haineault recruited Taylor Patterson, senior deaf education major, on drums, Jackson Dean, junior computer science major, on guitar and Joe Martin on bass. The original band name was Trailer of Tears, but they changed their name to New Natives in 2013.

New Native’s music is full of energy and is reminiscent of artists like the Police, Weezer, Smashing Pumpkins and Buddy Holly.

 “We grew up listening to all of those bands and they influence the music that we write,” Haineault said. “There was a period where we all became obsessed with British invasion bands like the Zombies, the Kinks, and the Beatles. We are also really huge fans of classic power pop music. We really love music from all eras.”

This eclectic mix of influences is obvious in their self-titled album. In 10 tracks, the band manages to take you on a journey through musical history. 

The tracks “Bitter and Cursed” and “Hopes and Dreams” make you feel like you are in a 50s diner sipping milkshakes. “It Shoulda Been You” transports you to 1983, and my favorite track, “Lights the Way,” takes you back to 90s alternative.

Their new album is available for download on iTunes, or you can listen to it on SoundCloud. For upcoming show information and band updates, you can find them on Facebook by searching “New Natives band Valdosta,” or on their official website at www.newnatives.net.