The National, an American rock band hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, first came together in 1999 in the vibrant city of Brooklyn, New York. The group comprises the distinctive baritone vocalist Matt Berninger, as well as the exceptionally talented Dessner and Devendorf brothers. Aaron Dessner skillfully handles guitar, piano, and keyboards, while Bryce Dessner contributes his expertise on guitar, piano, and keyboards as well.
The rhythm section consists of Scott Devendorf on bass and Bryan Devendorf on drums. Notably, Carin Besser, Matt Berninger's wife, has been a creative collaborator, lending her lyrical prowess to the band since their 2007 album, Boxer.
The National's journey began when Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, Scott Devendorf, and Bryan Devendorf founded the band. They released their eponymous debut album, The National, in 2001, on Brassland Records, an independent label founded by Aaron and Bryce Dessner. Soon after, Bryce officially joined the group, becoming a full-fledged member during the recording of their subsequent album, Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers (2003).
The band's decision to focus solely on their musical pursuits led to a significant breakthrough when they signed with Beggars Banquet Records and unleashed their third studio album, Alligator, upon the world in 2005. The album garnered widespread critical acclaim, propelling The National into the spotlight. Subsequent releases, including Boxer (2007) and High Violet (2010), further enhanced their prominence in the music industry.
In 2013, The National unveiled Trouble Will Find Me, their sixth studio album, which earned them a Grammy Award nomination. Their 2017 release, Sleep Well Beast, secured the band their first Grammy win. Demonstrating their artistic evolution, their eighth studio album, I Am Easy to Find, arrived on May 17, 2019, captivating both fans and critics alike with its poignant compositions.
The National's distinctive sound, characterized by Berninger's evocative vocals, introspective lyrics, and the band's meticulous instrumentation, has garnered them widespread acclaim. The enduring impact of their music was exemplified by the inclusion of four of their albums in NME's 2013 list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, solidifying their status as one of the most influential rock bands of their generation. With a remarkable discography and a passionate fan base, The National continues to captivate audiences with their emotive and thought-provoking music.
