Native, an artist hailing from the south-east of England and now based in Bristol, has just delivered his infinitely compelling debut album, ‘The Lonely Nature of Charlie L’Beau’. An album that blurs the lines between personal and theatrical themes, as well as modern and timeless sounds, it's an exploration of solitude, self-discovery, and the process of transformation, all viewed through the eyes of its central character, Charlie L’Beau.
Emerging from a period of significant isolation and change for Native, the new album intimately examines various relationships, those closest to us, as well as moments of therapy, and crucially, the relationship we all share with ourselves. Caught between worlds, Native manages to blend diverse styles and personal moments into a constantly shifting and ensnaring world. By inviting listeners into Charlie’s world, Native crafts an experience that feels both raw and surprisingly cinematic, blurring the boundaries between private contemplation and a staged performance.
Having started his musical journey within the electronic dance music scene, Native has since evolved his sound to incorporate more pronounced threads of alternative, alt-pop, and indie influences. It’s a sound that works effortlessly well on his debut record, allowing those more personal and reflective moments to shine.
Throughout the album, there’s an ease and seamless quality to each song, blending sounds that evoke a sense of timelessness and wistful nostalgia with more contemporary indie-pop sensibilities. The opening moments of ‘Cold Open’ possess a sonic quality reminiscent of early cinema, before gracefully shifting into a beautifully balanced and reflective soundscape. Elsewhere, standout single ‘Feeling Myself (Getting Through to You)’ delivers a relatable and thought-provoking track for anyone who has navigated the often-turbulent waters of modern dating, layering internal conflicts with charming melodic moments.
Further into the album, ‘Summer Of All These Sad Songs’ arrives as a shimmering piece of modern indie, one that wouldn't sound out of place with The 1975. The more vulnerable but uplifting ‘Therapy Song’ follows a similar indie vein but with a more expressive, almost shoegaze-like edge. The guitar is almost hopeful and triumphant, flickering across some genuinely heartfelt lyrical moments.
The album concludes with Native’s own stunning rendition of ‘The Rainbow Connection’, a beloved song instantly recognisable to any fan of The Muppets. Stripped to acoustic guitar and subtle orchestral hints, Native’s version is a genuine delight, providing a perfect and touching conclusion to an album that bravely explores the complexities of the human experience.
‘The Lonely Nature of Charlie L’Beau’ is an undeniable and largely unparalleled experience. As Native himself explains, the album serves as "an intimate yet theatrical journey through solitude, self-discovery, and transformation," and it’s hard to deny that.
For more from Native, be sure to follow him today on Instagram and TikTok.
