Back catalogue: Rock (All)

Review: Here is a CD version of The First Two Pages of Frankenstein, the ninth studio album from The National and as impressively put together as ever. Across the 11 songs contained here, recorded in New York and featuring an array of top notch guests such as Taylor Swift, Phoebe Bridgers and Sufjan Stevens, it marks new territory of sorts with its more emotional melodic content and denser lyrical offerings.

Review: It's fair to say that when The National release an album the Cincinnati originating supergroup garner the same type of attention that Radiohead once drew. With some futuristic production techniques creeping its way into the band's engineered sound, a new expressionism in the group's sound on "I Am Easy To Find" makes its way into the open, if only subtly. With the opening passages of "You Had Your Soul With You" sounding something like Battles' "Atlas", the music breaks down into a fanfare of traditional yet supercharged folk instrumentations; with drums, spoken word, strings in all their various forms, and the familiar smokey drawl of Matt Berninger's voice sitting snugly on top of subtle drum machines and synthesisers. Super ballads and sincerity.

Review: Seven albums in, The National have solidified their songwriting with confident nuance, and 'Sleep Well Beast' is another milestone on this consistent band's upward curve. Standout ballad 'Carin at the Liquor Store' waltzes and wanders through melancholic nostalgia and glimmers of hope, exemplifying the sound and storytelling that The National are so renowned and respected for. Small cracks in the concrete gloom appear with the more energetic and optimistic tracks, allowing just enough light in for this masterfully executed album to encourage repeat listens, which will in turn, and as always, provide ample rewards.

Review: The National's Rome, is a 21-track live album capturing the band's June 3, 2024 performance at the stunning Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone in - you guessed it - the Italian capital. Mixed by Peter Katis, the album spans over two decades of The National's career, featuring iconic tracks like 'Bloodbuzz Ohio', 'I Need My Girl' and 'Fake Empire', alongside newer material such as 'Eucalyptus' and 'Tropic Morning News'. The National, formed in 1999, are an American rock band known for their emotional depth and intricate songwriting. With Matt Berninger's baritone vocals and the instrumental prowess of brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner, alongside Scott and Bryan Devendorf, the band has built a reputation for powerful live performances and critically acclaimed albums. Known for their introspective lyrics and rich, textured sound, The National continues to evolve after two decades. This live recording showcases the band's ability to transform their songs in the concert setting, offering refreshed renditions and hidden gems like 'Runaway' and 'Murder Me Rachael'. Known for their intense live shows, Rome immortalises the emotional and fiery energy The National brings to the stage.