Native Nod
| Company type | Independent band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1990 |
| Headquarters | New Jersey / New York metropolitan area , United States |
| Products | Post-hardcore music, EPs, demo, compilations |
Native Nod was a post-hardcore group originating from the New Jersey and New York metropolitan region in 1990. Throughout their short-lived existence, they issued a demo, three EPs, and contributed tracks to various compilations between 1990 and 1994. A collection of many of their songs was later released as Today Puberty, Tomorrow The World in 1995.
History
At a skatepark in Bloomfield, New Jersey, Chris and Danny Leo encountered Justin Simon, bonding over shared musical interests. Simon brought Dave Lerner into the fold. Chris initially provided vocals for Mental Floss but soon redirected his efforts.
Native Nod’s early performances took place at ABC No Rio, where they helped foster a scene that stood in contrast to the aggressive hardcore atmosphere associated with CBGB's. They often played house shows throughout the New York/New Jersey area, gradually cultivating an audience prior to releasing any recordings.
Distinguishing themselves from the stereotypical hardcore punk persona, the band incorporated humor and adopted the term emo to define their sound. Their approach included unique touches such as Chris playing trombone during songs and sporting attire that defied punk conventions.
Their live appearances were mostly confined to the tri-state vicinity, with the exception of one event at the Rhode Island School of Design. A scheduled tour alongside Iconoclast was canceled due to conflicts, which contributed to their dissolution. Their final concert took place in Paramus, New Jersey, sharing the stage with Current, Angel Hair, and The Yah Mos.
Following the band’s breakup, Chris Leo went on to form The Van Pelt and later The Lapse, subsequently performing under Vague Angels. Dave Lerner played drums for Flex Lavender in 1995, then joined The Van Pelt and Ted Leo and the Pharmacists; he is currently active with Trummors. Danny Leo created Radio to Saturn with Nick Forte (of Rorschach), formed The Sin-Eaters with his brother Ted Leo, and later established The Holy Childhood. Justin Simon performed with We Acediasts in Japan before launching Mesh-Key Records based in New York.
In 2022, Numero Group announced plans to reissue Native Nod’s catalog, beginning with the Answers EP and culminating in the compilation This Can't Exist, which was released on September 1, 2023.
Influences
The band’s sound is rooted in the initial wave of emo and post-hardcore genres, influenced by the varied musical preferences of its members. These ranged from punk bands like Black Flag and Sonic Youth to hip hop artists including De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. Chris Leo highlighted Kim Gordon and Rakim as significant inspirations for his vocal delivery. Additionally, Mudhoney was recognized by the group as a major influence.
Members
- Chris Leo (vocals)
- Danny Leo (drums)
- Dave Lerner (bass)
- Justin Simon (guitar)
EPs
- Self-titled demo (1991)
- Answers (1992, Gern Blandsten)
- Bread (1993, Gern Blandsten)
- New Compositions and Arrangements for the Zither (1995, Gern Blandsten)
Compilations
- Today Puberty, Tomorrow The World (1995, Gern Blandsten)
- This Can't Exist (2023, Numero Group)
Compilation Appearances
- "Mr. President" on Fear Of Smell (1992, Vermiform)
- "Back To Mimsey" on God's Chosen People (1993, Old Glory Records)
- "Answers" on Gern Blandsten - The First Nine Years (2001, Gern Blandsten)
External links
- Gern Blandsten Records
- [Native Nod discography on Discogs]
- Articles with short description
- American post-hardcore bands
- American emo bands
- First-wave emo groups
- Emo bands from New Jersey
- Screamo bands
- Musical acts from Essex County, New Jersey
- Musical groups formed in 1991
- Musical groups disbanded in 1995
- Gern Blandsten Records artists
- The Numero Group artists
- Musical groups disestablished in 1995