It doesn't make a lot of sense for us to make High Violet the Album of the Week. It's not like you didn't know it was coming out, and it was a given that we were excited for it; and National records are like NFL draft picks: you can't tell what their impact is going to be until years later. Their last 2 records, 2005's Alligator and 2007's Boxer, were the definition of "slow-burners"; however, we can't imagine anything else being the Album of the Week on this particular week: the week when a new National album is born.
High Violet is a slow-burner as well, but maybe this time people will be ready for it. The National haven't changed with the times, and they aren't about to cash in on any trends. This is their 5th record after all, and they've seen many buzz bands come and go. As those bands sprinted past The National in the beginning, The National's slow and steady pace is winning the race. They make records that sound like National records, meanwhile continuing to refine their sound, rather than change the definition of it. The National are slowly building an audience with their baroque, brooding masterpieces.
If you're familiar with The National, High Violet will not disappoint, and it will be another child that will be difficult to rule out as your favorite. If you've been resistant to The National, maybe you need to relinquish your hang-ups, as they are steadily building a career catalogue that will be impossible to ignore.
Recommended If You Like:
mixed drinks, dark bars, dead-end jobs, questionable relationships, honesty, and the sound of your true love's heart beating.
Looks Like:
a hazy night of half memories.
Feels Like:
the hangover after that amazing hazy night.
Smells Like:
sweat, flowers, cologne, and whiskey.
Listen to When:
the after-after party is winding down.
Vinyl the Cat says:
You can crash at our place if you can't drive home!
The National - Bloodbuzz Ohio
The National - Afraid of Everyone |
