Band of the Week: The National

One of my favourite things about meeting new people is getting to invade their music libraries. And yes, I only associate with people with good musical tastes, obviously. Anyhow, that is how I came to listen to The National, a friend of mine lent me Boxer (such a fantastic record, GO BUY IT NOW. it is only of the most intimate, spine tingling things that I've ever heard)...I later bought Alligator, a very good purchase, if I do say so myself.

Why should you listen to The National, you say? Let me count the ways:
1. Matt's baritone is so refreshing in this age of computerized crap. I mean don't get me wrong, I love Thom York's high voice as much as the next guy but there's something oh so intimate about the way Matt sings.
2. Great lyrics. No, really, read them. If you thought the music gave you chills, brace yourself for the poetry shall flow through your speakers/headphones.
3. They are one of those bands with incredible sync and precision. To put it simply, they know what they're doing. Just listen to the drums in 'Apartment Story' if you don't believe me.
4. They were one of the first bands to step up and declare their political backing of Senator Barack Obama, even before Hilary was out of the race. They are not afraid to voice their opinions, which is really cool. They even designed a shirt for him, buy it HERE.
5. They are from Brooklyn, and we all know how most of the world's best bands hailed from NYC.
6. They still have some tour dates!

Sep 19 2008 8:00P
CO-OPS ROCK! Benefit w/ Menomena @ Moore Theatre Seattle, Washington

Sep 20 2008 8:00P
Street Scene San Diego, California

Oct 10 2008 8:00P
Hammerstein Ballroom - NY Magazine’s 40th Anniversary w/ Grizzly Bear New York, New York

Oct 24 2008 8:00P
TIM Festival – Marina da Glória Rio De Janeiro

Oct 25 2008 8:00P
TIM Festival – Ibirapuera Park Sao Paulo

Oct 27 2008 8:00P
UFES Theatre Vitoria

Nov 8 2008 8:00P
Fun Fun Fun Fest! Austin, Texas

anyhow, here are a couple of songs for you to enjoy, but do go out and support this great band.

The National - Mr November [mp3]
The National - Apartment Story [mp3]

visit the guys on MYSPACE