The National Mood is Still Gloomy
In case you didn’t know, The National is an American indie rock band formed in Cincinnati, Ohio. There was a moment on their last tour when Brooklyn’s (their new adopted home) The National reminded you just how special they can be – and are regularly. I find it hard to believe this will not be album of the year for me. It’s a ‘grower’, takes many listens to appreciate it, but damn is it worth it.
It was the finale, where they switched off the microphones and amplifiers and sang Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks, from their belated 2010 breakthrough High Violet, really old-school style. You just had to listen intently.
Luckily, more ears are tuned to their particular frequency than ever. And their sixth album, Trouble Will Find Me, requires your undivided attention like never before.
It’s a seriously mellow affair. Maybe too mellow for some. They’ve been lumped with the melancholy tag for years now, and it’s not moving any time soon.
Nor should it when you listen to the album’s standout, Pink Rabbits – the gorgeous tune that could replace Vanderlyle if they want to save electricity again.
Over a bruised piano refrain, vocalist Matt Berninger sings “You didn’t see me I was falling apart, I was a television version of a person with a broken heart†to someone in a “fainting chairâ€.
Berninger’s words – and voice – have never been more direct than in this stark environment.
Commanding opener I Should Live in Salt gets its title from Berninger’s baritone admission “I should live in salt for leaving you behind†– it’s a big brother’s apology to his filmmaker sibling Tom, who worked on the band’s acclaimed documentary Mistaken for Strangers.
Fireproof recalls British band Doves at their moodiest and most beautiful, Sea of Love showcases another of the band’s not-so-secret weapons in drummer Bryan Devendorf, while This is The Last Time uses floating strings to striking effect.
If you’re looking for another Bloodbuzz Ohio, best try Graceless or Demons. Elsewhere patience and repeated listening should provide you with the usual random goosebumps.
Album of the week: The National – Trouble Will Find Me
Rating: 3.5/5
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