Although The National hail from Cincinnati, their London shows always seem like homecomings. It’s my ninth time seeing them, so there‘s little I can add to all the gushing praise spouted elsewhere in this blog- they continue to marry exceptional songwriting and intensity like few other acts, the perfectly-judged percussion never fails to impress and Matt Berninger‘s still a surprisingly effective frontman for all his shyness- tonight saw several ventures into the audience and an ill-fated attempt at sliding around on an ice-covered stage. I’m still not entirely won over by the new songs (except opener Runaway) but the Alligator/Boxer-heavy setlist sparkled with a multitude of gems and a rare airing of oldie Available was a welcome treat for the many hardcore fans in attendance. A powerhouse performance from a truly special band, it’s surely only a matter of time before they break through into mainstream consciousness and get the widespread acclaim they wholeheartedly deserve.
(Photo: John Gleeson)
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