The National (band)

The National (band)
source
Name	The National
Caption	The National performing in 2018.
Origin	Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
Genre	Indie rock, alternative rock, sadcore
Years active	1999–present
Label	4AD, Beggars Banquet, Brassland
Website	americanmary.com
Current members	Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, Bryce Dessner, Scott Devendorf, Bryan Devendorf

The National (band). The National is an American indie rock band formed in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1999, currently based in Brooklyn, New York. Founded by friends from the University of Cincinnati, the band consists of vocalist Matt Berninger, twin guitarists and multi-instrumentalists Aaron Dessner and Bryce Dessner, bassist Scott Devendorf, and drummer Bryan Devendorf. Known for their literate lyrics, baritone vocals, and intricate, melancholic arrangements, they have become one of the most critically acclaimed and influential groups in alternative rock of the 21st century.

History

The band formed after its members relocated from the Midwest to Brooklyn, releasing their self-titled debut album, The National, on the independent label Brassland Records in 2001. Their early work, including Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers (2003), garnered a cult following and critical praise for its brooding intensity. A significant commercial and artistic breakthrough came with their fourth album, Boxer (2007), released on Beggars Banquet Records, which solidified their signature sound and established them as major figures in the indie rock scene. Subsequent albums like High Violet (2010) and Trouble Will Find Me (2013) debuted high on the ''Billboard'' 200 chart and expanded their global audience. Their later work, including the acclaimed Sleep Well Beast (2017), which won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album, and I Am Easy to Find (2019), has continued to explore electronic textures and collaborative processes. The band is also known for curating the annual Homecoming festival in their native Cincinnati and for the Dessner twins' extensive work outside the band, including on the Taylor Swift albums Folklore and Evermore.

Musical style and influences

The National's music is primarily categorized as indie rock and alternative rock, often delving into the subgenre of sadcore due to its melancholic and introspective nature. Central to their sound is the distinctive, resonant baritone of frontman Matt Berninger, whose lyrical themes frequently explore adult anxieties, masculinity, and urban alienation. Musically, their arrangements are characterized by intricate, interlocking guitar lines from the Dessner brothers, a propulsive and complex rhythmic foundation from the Devendorf rhythm section, and sophisticated use of piano and orchestral elements. Their evolution has seen an incorporation of more electronic production techniques, especially on later albums. Key influences include Joy Division, Talking Heads, Tom Waits, Nick Cave, and Bruce Springsteen, with their poetic lyricism also drawing comparisons to writers like Raymond Carver.

Band members

The National has maintained a stable lineup since its formation. The core members are lead vocalist and lyricist Matt Berninger, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Aaron Dessner, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Bryce Dessner, bassist Scott Devendorf, and drummer Bryan Devendorf. The Dessner twins and Bryan Devendorf are the primary musical composers. While not official members, several frequent collaborators are integral to their studio and live sound, including pianist and arranger Thomas Bartlett and horn players from the Brooklyn ensemble The Brassland.

Discography

The band's discography consists of nine studio albums. Their early releases on Brassland Records include The National (2001) and Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers (2003). Their major period began with Alligator (2005) on Beggars Banquet Records, followed by the critically lauded Boxer (2007). Their commercial peak includes High Violet (2010) and Trouble Will Find Me (2013), both released on 4AD. Later albums are the Grammy-winning Sleep Well Beast (2017), the cinematic I Am Easy to Find (2019), and First Two Pages of Frankenstein (2023). They have also released several EPs and live albums, such as The Virginia EP and Boxer (Live in Brussels).

Awards and recognition

The National has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades throughout their career. Their 2017 album Sleep Well Beast won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. They have been nominated for several other Grammy Awards, including for I Am Easy to Find. The band has also been recognized by the BRIT Awards, earning a nomination for Best International Group. Their albums frequently appear on year-end and decade-end lists by publications like Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and NME. In 2018, they were awarded the Liberty Award for artistic contribution to New York City culture.

Category:American indie rock groups Category:Musical groups from Cincinnati Category:Musical groups established in 1999