National - The National (Abbey Road Remaster)

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2021, The National’s self-titled debut album of sozzled Americana is a thing of beauty, laden with heavy hints that this was a special band in the making.

Their first release, The National arrived two years after The National formed, a time when they were juggling band life with needing to hold down full-time jobs. And while 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 will stop you in your tracks.

Recorded prior to guitarist Bryce Dessner's full arrival into the band, The National was produced by both Nick Lloyd and the band itself. Now-bass guitarist Scott Devendorf performs both guitar and backing vocals on this album, with guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Aaron Dessner on bass guitar and guitar duties.

The National marks the start point for one of the best bands of their generation with its new master helping elevate it to new levels. A great primer to a great band. Remastered at Abbey Road Studios, this 2021 edition stays faithful to its original artwork while the stunning new master helps make it sound as vital as ever, further emphasizing the early signs of the sound that would go on to make them one of the best and most beloved alternative bands of their generation.

Heavyweight vinyl produced by 4AD in 2021. Remastered by Christian Wright at Abbey Road Studios.