The National’s self-titled debut album marks the start point for one of the best bands of a generation. Released in 2001, ‘The National’ landed two years after they formed and came during a time when they were having to juggle band life with full-time jobs. While it nods to the alt. rock artists that inspired
them (Pavement, Silver Jews) can be heard, so too are the beginnings of something all their own – Matt Berninger’s stunning and unexpected lyrics being pinned to melodies that stop you in your tracks.