The National

The National is an active American rock band, formed in Brooklyn, New York City, in 1999, with roots in Cincinnati, Ohio. The current lineup features Matt Berninger on vocals, twin brothers Aaron and Bryce Dessner on guitars and keyboards, and brothers Scott and Bryan Devendorf on bass and drums, respectively. Longtime touring members Ben Lanz and Kyle Resnick are also integral to their live sound. Matt Berninger's wife, Carin Besser, has contributed lyrics since the 2007 album Boxer. The band is currently signed to the independent label 4AD.

Known for their melancholic yet anthemic indie rock sound, The National has built a reputation for emotionally resonant songwriting and intricate musical arrangements. Their career trajectory saw them move from independent releases to critical acclaim with albums like Alligator (2005), followed by wider recognition with Boxer (2007) and High Violet (2010). The band achieved a significant milestone when their 2017 album, Sleep Well Beast, won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album. Their 2023 releases, First Two Pages of Frankenstein and the surprise follow-up Laugh Track, saw collaborations with notable artists and further cemented their status, with First Two Pages of Frankenstein reaching No. 1 on Billboard's AAA & Rock charts.[edit]

The National was formed in 1999 by Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, Scott Devendorf, and Bryan Devendorf in Brooklyn, New York. The group's origins trace back to Cincinnati, Ohio, where the members initially knew each other. They released their self-titled debut album, The National, in 2001 on Brassland Records, an independent label co-founded by Aaron Dessner, his twin brother Bryce Dessner, and Alec Hanley Bemis. Bryce Dessner, who had assisted in recording the debut album, officially joined as a full member for their second album, Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers, released in 2003. This album continued to explore their burgeoning sound, laying groundwork for future critical success. The band then transitioned to Beggars Banquet Records for their third album, Alligator, in 2005. This release marked a significant turning point, bringing them widespread critical acclaim and a growing fanbase, signaling their departure from day jobs to focus fully on music.[edit]

The National's musical style is primarily rooted in indie rock and post-punk, characterized by a consistent evolution of their signature sound. Early works, including their self-titled debut and Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers, showcased a more raw, guitar-driven approach. With the release of Alligator in 2005, their sound began to mature, highlighting Matt Berninger's distinctive baritone vocals and introspective, often melancholic, lyrics over increasingly intricate arrangements. Albums such as Boxer (2007) and High Violet (2010) refined this aesthetic, establishing them as purveyors of anthemic yet somber rock music with layered instrumentation. Their 2013 album, Trouble Will Find Me, continued this trajectory, earning critical praise and a Grammy nomination. For Sleep Well Beast (2017), the band explored more electronic textures and experimental elements, a direction that contributed to its Grammy win. Their 2023 albums, First Two Pages of Frankenstein and Laugh Track, have been noted for their collaborations and continued exploration of nuanced songwriting, demonstrating an enduring capacity for sonic and lyrical depth.[edit]

The National has established a significant presence in American rock music through their consistent artistic integrity and critically lauded discography. Their sound, a blend of atmospheric indie rock with introspective lyrical themes delivered by Matt Berninger's distinctive baritone, has resonated deeply with a dedicated audience. The intricate guitar arrangements by Aaron and Bryce Dessner, coupled with the precise rhythm section of Scott and Bryan Devendorf, create a sonic landscape that is both expansive and intimate. Their commitment to releasing cohesive and thematically rich albums, rather than chasing fleeting trends, has earned them respect within the music industry. Albums like Boxer and High Violet significantly increased their visibility, while the Grammy win for Sleep Well Beast solidified their critical standing. Their influence can be seen in contemporary artists who embrace lyrical depth and atmospheric production in their own work.[edit]

While a specific official fandom name for The National is not widely publicized, their fanbase is known for its deep appreciation of the band's lyrical content and melancholic atmosphere. Fans often connect with the emotional honesty in Matt Berninger's writing, finding solace and shared experience in the band's exploration of themes like anxiety, relationships, and middle-class ennui. This connection is often expressed through discussions online and at live shows, where the audience's engagement with the songs is palpable. The band's consistent touring schedule has fostered a strong sense of community among their followers, who often anticipate and discuss upcoming tours and releases with enthusiasm.[edit]