Reviews (page 6 of 9)
I was only dimly aware of the band - very Radio Paradise.
Helt okej men lite småtråkigt emellanåt.
Super bello e super malinconico
I saw these guys headline a night of the Pitchfork Music Fest in 2009, which would have been right before this album. It’s probably the most boring show I have ever seen. When they came out and started playing their overly introspective, navel gazing brand of depression rock, they sucked the fun right out of the crowd in a way that would make the Hoover Company proud. It’s good to see that wasn’t an isolated incident and their records are boring as fuck, too. Someone should tell these guys they don’t have to use the same tempo for every song.
Nothing for me.
Neither good nor bad. Just......there.
3.5
Big fan of The National here, but I confess I've not listened to this album. Loved it and will definitely add to my rotation! From my first listen, my favorite track is "Afraid of Everyone".
Something indescribable (to me) about this album grabs me. Not sure what. If I contemplate any song by itself it seems somewhat unremarkable to me yet the entire album feels solid enough that I want to give it 4 instead of 3. I'm perplexed...
I’ve always heard that this was an amazing album. I’ve heard Bloodbuzz a ton, but nothing else. But this was great. I really enjoyed it.
This was pretty good. A bit easy to tune out though. Taylor Swift has some songs with them so I’ve heard of them before but never really listened.
Rigtig god, første National jeg har hørt :o
MEGET nem 5er, den her plade er en af mine all time faves
Virkelig god plade, hvor stort set alle sange er lige til at høre igen!
Nicht meine Richtung
3.5
I like this a lot and I’m not sure why. I’ve criticized other albums for shortcomings that this has too. Mumbly singer, droning voice, weird ass lyrics, and backing music that isn’t all that interesting. I think it’s because it’s catchy. They have the ear worm algorithm down.
Starts with the definitive sound of early 2010s folk revival alternative. Has a listless / meloncholy sound. The singers voice is strong and has a unique timbre- it works well for the sound they are going for. The song subject is a little one note- tumultuous relationships and heartbreak. I guess thats what a lot of songs are about. The lyrics are surprisngly nonesensical at some points- its a juxtaposition to how serious the subject matter seems to be. Overall- i was initially surprised how much i enjoyed the album. But given the clear Arcade Fire influence and mt enjoyment of this style of alternative in general, it makes sense. Very solid album that I enjoyed- i could see coming back to this in morose moods in the future
#298. I literally don't remember what this sounded like. I listened to this less than 24 hours ago and I've already forgotten it. I know it was hipster folk, which explains the forgettableness, but I don't remember hating any particular part of it either, so I guess it gets a meh out of ten. 2/5: meh Song added to playlist: Terrible Love I've created a playlist on Spotify that consists of the best and/or my favorite song from each of the albums in this book. This list can be found here if you are interested: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7MAXDGLWlwLkFLb8veGfkA?si=FqkQQPgZTFWG0jAUJXLFZA&utm_source=copy-link
The album can feel a bit one-note at times, but it makes up for what it lacks in atmosphere and texture.
唉 独立音乐 唉
Absolutely fabulous. Didn't know of this band until Glastonbury this year i am ashamed to say but so glad I have discovered them now. Sheer class
I forgot everything about this as soon as I finished listening
Interesting album - sort of upbeat Leonard Cohen playes slowed-down Joy Divisin.
Loved this one! So, so good. Will definitely be listening to it again.
Maybe you need to be in a certain mood to enjoy this. I just found out very depressing and not especially interesting.
This album reminds me of another band that I can’t recall. This is going to bother me. Oh well. Worth the listen.
First time I've listened to this band. It was just ok for me. I listened to some of their other albums and I enjoyed them but nothing really grabbed me.
Not their best album but has some nice songs in there.
Boxer was good. This is just the same thing, generally artists need to grow, captivate. Just boring.
I always thought of myself of a fan of The National, but revisiting this album I was surprised to find myself incredibly bored. It did prompt me to listen to Trouble Will Find Me and still really enjoyed that one. Idk! Maybe their stuff is too similar and I feel like TWFM does it best.
I used to love these guys a lot… it’s not my favorite of theirs — this doesn’t hit as much as Alligator or Trouble Will Find Me — but I do think that Matt Berninger’s vocals go a looooong way in my enjoyment of this band/record, it’s hard to go too wrong! Very rousing and affecting!
I like The National and I enjoyed listening to one of their albums!
I just think the national is the most boring and inoffensive band around ... just middle of the road - it's not even bad! it just does nothing for me
Very high 3, le hubiera dado un 4 si no hubieran glorificado a los asquerosos británicos en una canción
7/10 very enjoyable
Just ok. Kind of bland and depressing.
Great moments throughout, but not totally my thing. I appreciate it as being great, but it definitely doesn't resonate fully.
So many great songs on this album!
It was really lovely. It gave me vibes of the likes of Far Caspian, The Narrative and other indie artists like them. It's music you wouldn't be surprised to hear in Life is Strange (which is an insult for some but more of a compliment for me)
boring as fuck and not for me, most of the lyrics are just "I'm sad cause we broke up" :( atmosphere is interesting but jesus fuck it gets repetetive after 2 songs. production was also really weak, drowned out drums and guitar on some songs and when they're not they still don't stand out. 1/5
While the band is certainly competent and utilizes production techniques that compliment the songs, but something about the National comes across as dull, subdued, dispassionate. Nothing bad on this album, but nothing to rave about either.
Not a bad indie album but nothing exciting
I liked it pretty well
Familiar with this album. Some great tracks
71/100
Never understood what made The National so successful when there are quite a few other acts sounding very close to them while having tons of personality to provide listeners with something truly unique, idiosyncratic, original, what have you--acts such as Other Lives, Tindersticks, Interpol, The Walkmen or Grizzly Bear (most of them less commercially succesful)... The thing is, where are those tons of personality when it comes to the National? Is having no clear-cut personality an actual asset to attract the biggest streaming numbers in this day and age? My personal feeling is that a lot of fans of The National are just ignorant of those other bands' albums, and are just happy a well-oiled promotional machine led them to become admirers of Aaron Dessner's outfit first. Of course, there's no way I can confirm or prove this feeling, and I already understand why those admirers could accuse me of bad faith here. Yet nothing is gonna shake that initial impression of mine that The National represent a very safe and conformist vision of what quote-unquote "indie bands" should sound like starting from the tail end of the noughts. It's like that review in this section where the reviewer complains that opener *Terrible Love* is the lo-fi version of the song, instead of its clean alternative rendition found in the deluxe edition of the album. What more can be said? Clearly, some listeners of The National want to "play it safe", quite literally in this particular case. And this is not how I envision art in general, and music in particular. Don't get me wrong, *High Violet* doesn't deserve a 1/5 grade (or even a 6/10 grade according to how I translate my grading when it comes to more general purposes). The lyrics (and the stories said lyrics evoke) are interesting enough, the arrangements are tasteful, the pristine production values are well used, the chord sequences are effective (in spite of the fact that not many risks are taken), and Dessner's deep voice is more than decent overall (in spite of its frequent drowsy inflexions). It's not bad at all, by all means. You even have a majority of clear stand-out tracks in *High Violet*, such as "Anyone's Ghost", "Afraid Of Everyone", "Bloodbuzz Ohio", "Lemonworld", "England" and "Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks"... But even on those objectively "nice" cuts, the overall effect/affect is, well, a little *bland* at times. Tindersticks have their rough-around-the-edges aesthetics and Grizzy Bear their dreamy atmosphere, counterbalanced by a few convoluted flourishes here and there. Other Lives display cosmic or wild west-inspired moods exploring the concept of the American frontier in breathtaking sonic moves. Interpol have their postpunk influences to liven up the proceedings. And, depending of the time period they released their LPs, The Walkmen could either sound instictively brawly or charmingly retro. But in *High Violet*, The National are just The National. Full stop. Is it even possible to ascribe evocative adjectives to their music? They just play "well-written" and "well-arranged" songs, and as such, they point to the lowest common denominator. I'm not so sure that's a good thing in the long run, to be perfectly honest. At least in the grand scheme of selecting 1001 albums you must absolutely listen to before you die... 3/5 for the purposes of this list of essential album. 8/10 for more general purposes (5+3) Number of albums left to review: 143 Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 369 Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 218 (including this one) Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 274
Baritone singing from Matt Berninger is pretty good. Favorite track: Terrible Love Other picks: Little Faith, Bloodbuzz Ohio, Runaway
Found this to be boring. A style of modern music that I just don’t enjoy that much, too slow. 2/5 Won’t listen again
no surprises here, it's The National
This was just... Nice. I can't put my finger on why, but it was just a very enjoyable listen.
it was mid and depressing
I enjoyed each song individually (I like folk, indie, alt rock) but as an album less of a fan. Each song was well done, deep and introspective. I also really connect with the themes of aging, change, being retrospective, and how that can manifest into anxieties, depression and sorrowful feelings. I am at 40 now and feel a lot of that emotion and ideas. But for me personally I need something with a little more energy in the music to bring me up followed by the current songs to bring me back down. Yes all the feelings he has are real, but there can be beauty in anxiety, depression and sorrow. I am sad because something was good or I can find beauty in today's world even in small parts like a sunset. As an album it left me wanting that piece.
This album was ok. I didn’t dislike it but it was a little depressing, and not in a way that emotionally moved me.
Sad boi indie with a great rhythm section.
Melancholic, gentle rock
Meh
Well made and written, but most songs sound exactly the same and end up being forgettable. I enjoyed the sound of this overall and I felt it had some great mixing and production, but it never clicked with me to be more than a 3.
This one grew on me on subsequent listens, but only went from meh to just alright. Listening to this just makes me want to be listening to Arcade Fire instead. Favorite song was Bloodbuzz Ohio.
One of the albums I listen to often. I discovered it because "sorrow" was used in a Ragnar Kjartansson art film, where he asked the band to play the same song for 6 hours straight. It was amazing; and the album is too. To this day the only The National album I've listened too but I should explore more!
Nice and broody. 4.5
Great. Just really great 4.5
esse é ruinzinho demais. Um chororô melancólico dismórfico. Nada com nada o som, nada é marcante. Guitarra fraca, a voz do cara puxa pros anos 80 mas não chega aos pés dos grandes daquela década. Sonzinho bem meia boca mesmo. Passo longe.
Newest album so far I've had to listen to. I don't think I'm the right audience for this because the music just ended up sounding corny to me. From their end there was no lack of energy or passion, and the music fit well to the singing. It just didn't land for me in a way that I imagine the band originally would have liked.
Today's album is indie rock, similar to Arcade Fire or Fleet Foxes, but more gothic maybe.... Dude sounds uninterested in singing, so he more moans than sings which is big with goths. By the end of the album, the bands style was starting to grow on me, and upon second listen I started to appreciate it a bit more. Favourite songs: Lemonworld, Anyone's Ghost, Little Faith, Conversation 16, Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks, Runaway Least favourite songs: Afraid of Everyone 3/5
Low violet
This is garbage. Low energy forgetful boredom. I think this is the first album out of the 50 or so 1001 albums that I will not listen to ever again. There's nothing here that makes me think, "Maybe I'm missing something".
2+
Favourites: sorrow, little faith, afraid of everyone, bloodbuzz Ohio (lol Ohio), runaway, conversion 16, england, vanderlyle crybaby geeks. Not bad but a little monotonous for me. 3/5
This was actually very good, no skips and even a few "add to my playlist" tracks in the mix. This was exactly what I expect an album by The National to sound like. Best song was Conversation 16, and other favourites include Sorrow, Bloodbuzz Ohio, Runaway, England, and Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks. You know what why the hell not, 4 again
Delicate album. Professionally put together by legit musicians. Best song is Bloodbuzz Ohio, but all songs are good. Liked The Nationals enough to listen to some of their other work. (3.1*s)
I like The National and what they've done but I keep waiting for their tone's equivalent of a banger (like a sorrow-banger if that can be a thing). Just anything you havvve to listen to, love to hear, play on repeat, something like that (it doesn't have to be happy). I really dig their sound but it always just ends up being mood music I put on in the background. I can't name a single song of theirs but I do think they are talented. I liked this album mainly because it's recognizable as theirs, Matt Berninger's voice is great for this. It feels well-thought out, precise, and meant for whole-album consumption. It has emotion but it just doesn't grab me as much as other bands of this ilk. I will ALWAYS go to Band of Horses and then probably Grizzly Bear but I'll be sure to give the older albums (Boxer and Alligator) an attentive listen. Bloodbuzz Ohio is the best track here. Upgrade for anything mentioning "bees."
The tone here is lowdown and somber but it's not a hallow wallow. There is substance and it's pretty good. The songs run into the next without much change so it feels like one long epic. Berninger is pining throughout the while album. His monotone voice drones on, he becomes a brain eating zombie, and eventually spirals into complete madness talking to birds. Failed relationships really got to the guy. The band is still on tour and I can't imagine the show being anything but depressing. Do they hand out a ix of tissues and a lighter at the ticket check? Not a bad album but got to be in a mood...2.4.
I respect The National as an artist. They make some decent music and continue to remain relevant. My only issue is that you need to be in a certain mood to listen to them. Their sound is so somber and glum that often times its just not what I want to listen to. That's not to take away from High Violet which is an OK album. It just doesn't resonate with me as something I want to spend time with. For that reason I have to mark it down. 2.12 stars
Not a great album by a great band
Never really got my attention. Kinda underwhelming
Millennial dad rock with all the excitement of a Prius. The National's sound is sweepingly cinematic with big orchestration and spacious reverby/tremelo u2-style guitar swells. Slower and more stately than their 00s indie counterparts like interpol, the walkmen or broken social scene - they elements in common with those bands but its just never connected for me. It's mature and sophisticated and polished and ultimately pretty plodding dull stuff that's successfully repressed the libidinal teenage agita that animates better rock. They're good at conjuring a mournful contemplative mood, but there's not enough dissonance to make the peaks satisfy or cathartic - it just ebbs and flows, no tension no release.
I have never heard of this band before. It's atmospheric. The singer is kind of monotone. A bit too depressing. Good sounding drums on some of the tracks. I don't think I'd listen to it again. Maybe a low 3/5.
A batch of bran muffins
Just.. boring. I really couldn't get into this.
Just so boring
Pretty chilled stuff, but became fairly boring and monotone
I was heard of this band for the first time a few days before it appeared here. Pretty boring, monotonous stuff. The singer might want to try adding a third note to his singing. Maybe some inflection would be nice.
Er gebeurt niet genoeg voor mij. Vond het wat saai om eerlijk te zijn. Stem sprak mij ook niet echt aan. Wel goed als achtergrondmuziek I guess. Misschien heb ik gewoon iets tegen mannelijke zaagstemmen, who knows. 3
A lovely and sensitive album. The vocals really draw you in to the experience. The simple drums are hypnotic. Playlist pick: Anyone’s Ghost
Thoughts before listening: Love this band, despite being a little darker and moodier than most music I enjoy. These guys were putting out albums through my 20s and 30s that felt like "adult" music that I should be listening to, especially coming out of listening to primarily punk rock and jambands. I very much enjoy all their albums including this one, which includes one of their best songs in "Bloodbuzz, Ohio". Review: I think I'd probably give most National albums a 4 with maybe a 5 for Boxer or Trouble Will Find Me. There are some great songs on this album, most of which fall in the back half of the album. "Bloodbuzz Ohio" is the centerpiece and still one of the best songs of its era. Other great songs include "Afraid of Everyone", "England", and "Lemonworld". In general this includes some of the band's best songs, but ultimately drags in a few places keeping it as a 4-star album.
When I'm in the mood for this, it's 5*, when I'm not, it's a 3*
I like it. Bloodbuzz Ohio especially. 3.6
Un disco aclamado por la crítica, que con los años sigue sosteniéndose como de los mejores de la década. The National suenan a Nick Cave, Arcade Fire, el mejor Postpunk, Interpol, Tindersticks, British Sea Power... La portada es preciosa, las canciones solemnes destacando por encima de todas Blodbuzz Ohio. Terrible love, Sorrow, todas encajan y suenan radiantes. Un disco enorme para una banda infalibe. Otros discos de 2010: Arcade fire- the suburbs, Beah house- teen dream, Kanye west- My beautiful dark twisted fantasy, Vampire weekend- contra, Deerhunter- halcyon digest, craibou- swim, Joanna newson- have one on me, Janelle Monáe - The ArchAndroid, Belle and Sebastian- write about love, The Drums - The Drums, LCD Soundsystem -This Is Happening, John Grant- Queen Of Denmark, Best Coast - Crazy For You, Wild Nothing -Gemini, The Black Keys- Brothers, Crystal Castles- Crystal castles, Delorean- subiza, lana del rey- Lana del rey, Sade- Soldier of love, MGMT - Congratulations, band of horses- Infinite arms, Superchunk- Majesty Shredding, Elton John and Leon Russell- The union...
Kind of boring. Like if Ian Curtis was still around and decided to join an early 2010's folkish band. Something like a further toned down Lumineers.
Boxer by The National was the only CD I ever bought without knowing anything about it or the band. It was in the rock section of Music World and I thought the cover was interesting. Pretty good album. This was fantastic. I’ve heard the singles but this thing maintains through the entire runtime Sad dad music at its best
Fine, not really my vibe. Very moany indie dudeish. Conversation 16 was the best if I had to say
Very good. I do think Trouble Will Find Me is a better album but this is a Nic choice. Somewhat sombre and haunting. It does lean into some hipster caches which is a deterrent. But overall, a solid listen.
In the 80s bands worried about selling out and this resulted in some very tight music. In the 00s coolness factor seemed less important for many bands and the National is one such example. Lyrics are pretty terrible and they hit all the right notes with the right kind of instruments for maximum impact ..would all be very boring except that the quality of the songs is just very high. So still like this album a lot (2010: 9/10, 2024: 9/10).
It's been a while that I listened to it, and I'm equally impressed and moved as before. Not enough stars can be given to this album.
I love how music has the ability to transport you to whatever memory you’d forgotten. This album tastes like warm aperol spritz and holidays. Music is great and The National are so good.
A lot of people seem to think this is The National’s best album but Im not sure I agree. It doesn’t have the energy and vitality of the preceding Alligator and Boxer, or the lovely and earnest ballads of its follow-up Trouble Will Find Me. The centrepiece of the record is the stunning Bloodbuzz Ohio, which is one of their biggest songs for good reason, but otherwise this album feels a bit lifeless in places
Soooo boring
This is pretty good but if you are anything like me and this is the first album by The National that was released after you stopped keeping up with new bands, today’s selection also acts as a friendly reminder to schedule a prostate exam and/or mammogram.
Hört sich ein wenig nach Talkin Wire an. Oder umgekehrt. Nett anzuhören.
At first I hated this album but then I banged my knee real hard and I was like "God dammit!" "This is a lemonworld!"
A couple of interesting things, but ultimately boring like the club
3.2/5. listened 1x catchup on 5/8/24. worth another listen
I've heard of The National before, and this is the second album I'm checking out from them after First Two Pages of Frankenstein. It's the kind of indie rock and post-punk blend you would expect from such a reputable group, where rich poetry is delivered over fuzzy hooks, well-accented drums, and great grooves. I don't expect everyone to like this, given the genres they belong in and Matt Berninger's lower register. But if you're into that style of music, then it's a solid recommendation.
Aaron Dessner the man that you are.
Un sentito grazie ai The National per essere, da ormai cinque anni, la mia band-da-piantino di riferimento. Queste 5 stelle sono per voi. Thank you guys, you never miss. ❤️
Okay l’ho ascoltato al mattino e inizialmente sentivo fosse un 3 ma ho voluto riascoltarlo la sera e ha senz’altro cliccato di più! Super bello e super malinconico
One of my favorite voices in all of music. Could probably listen to him sing anything and enjoy it. Second half of this album really outshines the first. A little disappointed to learn that this is their only album to have ever appeared on this list.
3.5
Not a fan of the vocals. Otherwise, it’s fine. Nothing too crazy in either direction
Shut Up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Nerd
If I was hanging out with someone, and they said to me "hey listen to this album, its essential that you listen to this before you die", and then they put this album on, I would think a few things. One, I would be concerned that they might mean to do me harm. Two, I would question their musical taste and I would probably hang out with them less in the future. 1/5
First listen from a more recent decade lol. kinda whiney at times but I was a fan of a couple of the tunes. Favorite track was Anyone's Ghost.
I listened to this album while working on my car, now, it drives better. Coincidence? Yeah probably (the music was good too). 3.3
This was interesting. It has potential for me to like it but was a little slow and depressing.
Good album.
Solid late-2000s indie sound. The production is really chill. Follows the theme of a repeated lo-fi riff in each song, so it can get boring at times. It has its moments. The singer’s voice was also a bit so/so. Some songs I was digging it, others I felt like it didn’t quite fit the vibe.
Total classic.
Another album of well executed music that holds llittlethat is interesting to me. Kind of like this review may be for another reader.
Ok 2/5
No idea after listening 3 times
There's a consistent sound or feel throughout that becomes a bit repetitive. It may be a feeling of being over produced. Either way I kind of enjoyed some of the songs, but not quite.
Leicht schwermütig, angenehm zu hören
High Violet Listen one: I wasn’t in to this much. It’s the same song 11 times. Piano, nice drumming, lots of tom toms. Takes itself quite seriously. Not keen on the singer. Listen two: I enjoyed it a bit more, I started to notice a few moments that I really liked, although it still felt a bit monotonous. Listen three: I enjoyed it a bit more. A couple of songs stood out, Conversation 16 and England in particular. I liked the consistent atmosphere across the album. It’s obviously a record that needs a few listens and is a grower. However I can’t quite shake that feeling of self importance and that they have one way of doing a song. There are lots of lovely little moments throughout but for me that doesn’t quite make up for the repetitiveness in tempo, structure and arrangement. Even the drumming, which stood out on the first listen, started to feel a bit hollow, as if being used to disguise the slightly pedestrian nature of the songs. So I guess it comes down to how much you like The National song archetype. I can appreciate the craft and skill and there are some great touches throughout, and I definitely liked it the more I listened, but I don’t think I’m quite convinced by it or them and I’m not sure if I will actually dedicate the time for it ti grow on me. 2 feels a bit low for as it’s clearly not a terrible record so I’ll go 3: ⭐⭐⭐️
Meh! It's aloof in this way that feels moderately depressing. And maybe melodramatic feeling. Only a tiny notch about 1 star.
Meh
Indie rock. Rollo. Ni fu ni fa.
I somehow have never heard of these guys before, but I fucking loved it. Deep ass dive time for me.
I love The National. "I Am Easy to Find' was one of my most-played albums of 2019, and I don't think they've made a bad album. Ever. I really like the direction that Dessner and Berninger took the National after this album though. High Violet is a little boring and they've got much better stuff as they've grown and increased production value and musicianship.
I love their previous album, and enjoyed seeing them live playing songs from this album, but it doesn't quite reach those heights for me. It's good, but not great.
Subtle.
Not the National that I enjoy
Ok
I believe I liked the second half of the album more than the first...unless the sound just took a little to grow on me...I'll have to listen again. I would have to say parts reminded me of some of the Father John Misty stuff I've heard. Not a bad thing.
I used to not be able to get their appeal at all, and I can still see how they're not for everyone. But there are so many brilliant moments strewn throughout the seemingly calm and melancholy vibe. I really enjoyed this.
I had not previously heard of the artist or album before listening to this one. This was an interesting listen. It's very atmospheric in sound, both vocals and instruments. It certainly sets the mood. The songs were pretty decent. I liked this one enough to listen again, but not sure I am necessarily jumping up and down about it either.
Took me by surprise, but sounds a little bit like "Why?"
Nice
Music in the record was great. It set a strong tone. Melancholy and sad at most times. I don't think I care for the dead pan Joy Division type lyrics... "looooove will tear us apart..." It got old fast. Otherwise, decent record.
I tried and failed with this in 2010. I thought it was too slow and depressing. 14 years later it hit a bit harder
The National do a cool version of Terrapin and collaborated with taylor swift but that’s all i knew from them. this was a super cool album though. no standout songs that i loved but really good time throughout. will definitely listen to more
Hated it. "I listened to Radiohead once" indy trash.
Not bad at all. I like the voice. It and the arrangements remind me of the German dark wave duo Wolfsheim with Peter Heppner and Markus Reinhard. A bit melancholic, but I like it. 4/5
Great vibes throughout
Boring
Sort of forget about this one with how much I like Boxer and Trouble Will Find You -- but damn, it's just as good.
This album made my dick softer than usual....
Dad rock. Coldplay meets Snow Patrol. Some nice inoffensive tunes.
I quite liked this - not my usual choice but it was pretty decent.
An album by one of my favourite bands, featuring Bloodbuzz Ohio ..easy rating this one Not quite their best album in my opinion, but a very solid 4 stars
Not bad, but not good either. Each songs have their own style but it never improves. It starts and end the same, no bridge, do drop, which makes the whole thing pretty underwhelming. The low monotone voice of the singer doesnt help their case either. indie rock is supposed to make you feel nostalgic/emotional but it felt cheap. Others have done it better
Sometimes cool but forgettable overall
This would’ve been right up my alley at the time it was released, I’m surprised I haven’t heard it before.
Un album tout à fait banal qu'eltrapeze a bien entendu apprécié. Rien d'étonnant quand on sait que ses oreilles sont pleines de matière fécale. C'est l'occasion pour moi de vous rappeler qu'il est possible pour vous de recueillir mon avis au sujet de n'importe quel album via l'adresse courriel robertestleperedemikeladd@gmx.com une fois ce générateur de nullités arrivé à son terme.
A ma grande surprise, cet album indie des années 2010 était excellent. Il a donc fallu attendre 1088 albums pour que Robert arrive enfin à nous convaincre que l'indie pop peut être pas mal. Un travail de longue haleine, qui prouve tout le dévouement de l'affreux Robert. Plus que quelques albums pour profiter de nos critiques les plus avisées, si vous souhaitez obtenir votre critique personnelle, vous pouvez nous contacter à l'adresse mail robertestleperedemikeladd@gmx.com, nous nous ferons un plaisir de répondre à votre demande moyennant un paiement d'une cinquantaine d'euros.
Ein angenehmes melodisches Album. Die Balladen traumhaft. Ich habe eine neue Band entdeckt.
I actually quite liked this album. Such a beautiful voice and very immersive instrumentals. First I wanted to give it 3/5 given the monotonous nature of all the songs which might be kind of boring if you are not in the mood for relaxing and meditating. However, the England track changed my mind. It all made sense, as the monotonous tracks before were now acting as the preparation for this kind of final piece that fell into place quite neatly. So.. great album!
A good album on second listen.
I see the appeal just not for me.
These guys are now my best friends and my dads.
This was just ok for me. I really liked the album artwork, though!
wel leuk ofzo, maar beetje saai
I liked it a lot, sort of a light folk alternative rock feel, very mellow and relaxing. Going to save the artist to check out more of their stuff.
Sympathisches Album mit ruhigen und gefühlvollen Tönen. Es sind passende und abwechslungsreiche Folge von Songs mit einer angenehmen Stimme des Sängers. Das melodische Arrangement ist gut zu hören. Top Songs sind „Sorrow“ & “ England”.
Cool and heavy blanket
Moody indie folk tunes
The National remiinded me of Death cab for cutie. Kinda downbeat and EMO. I love DCab. I definitely like The National and this is a find for me. I was not totally on board with a solid album of downbeat, but that is more a product of the timing and liiving in a place with months and months of dark grey "beep" weather. So I will put them in my EMO playlist and yeah...
some cool songs on here. really liked bloodbuzz ohio and conversation 16. not a record i will listen to frequently but decent enough.
Pretty boring.
really fucking boring NNN
Surprisingly good for driving!
I liked this album… has a band of horses vibe. Also reminds me of some Depeche Mode. Sultry laid back vibes!
An absolutely wonderful album for a great nap.
It’s a decent album, but not groundbreaking or anything.
Basically the same song over and over again. Lead vocalist has no range.
The national are a band I want to love. I always like their records ok, but never love them. In part I think it's because I always get the sense that writing something I think is incredible is within their grasp. I also think if they wrote lyrics that were more clear about what they wanted to say and less poetryish I'd like them better. I almost want to give this a 2 out of this frustration, but it wouldn't capture how I feel about the songs as they are, only how I wish they were. So, it's a 3.
Blind album and artist. Honestly could've lived without this and been okay.
Não vejo algum nexo na tentativa de reviver ou homenagear o pós punk.
Vocals suck tbh with you, not a bad album, just boring
This artist had so much potential with the opening track, which had a vibe of ominous building-up prelude to (presumably) an earth-shattering intro. Annoyingly, though, every track was precisely like that: build-up and no payoff. The mumbled, indistinct vocal got old fast, and the low, atmospheric instrumental present in most tracks was good in isolation but tedious when listened to for 47 minutes straight. That being said, Terrible Love was a good opener, and could’ve easily been the legendary opener to an album that made some very different decisions. The second track, Sorrow, was also good. After that, only tracks with higher energy (usually dictated by the presence of louder percussion) were enjoyable - including Afraid of Everyone, Bloodbuzz Ohio, and Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks. 2/5
Okay but not something I'll return to often
3.49
love it
This was just normal
Lots of good songs!
savrseno za blastat dok lezim na podu i buljim u strop A+
Nije lose, al mislim da mi vokal ne lezi iz nekog razloga. Mozda mi je samo predobar dan za ovakvu laganicu.
Rating: 7.5/10 Very good album overall. The instrumentation was extremely beautiful throughout, the use of strings to accentuate the somber tone of this album was a highlight in particular. The singer's voice perfectly matches the tone of the album, a deep voice that is filled with pain from his past. The crescendos that occurred during the ending of a lot of the songs was great, this definitely helped elevate all of the songs. As beautiful as this album is, it is very one-dimensional in sound and therefore difficult to distinguish a lot of the songs from each other, wish there was a bit more variety while keeping the tone and atmosphere they established so well. Favorite songs: Terrible Love, Sorrow, Anyone's Ghost, Lemonworld, Runaway, England, Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks. Worst songs: Little Faith, Afraid of Everyone.
This was more of a solid album than not that had a majestic, easy-going feel to it. Some of the songs were hard to get into because they are slow paced and have the same sound and feel to them. I had to get used to the singer's voice as I found myself thinking there wasn't a lot of feeling put into it...but I also recognize this is a different style of music too. The drumming was superb on several tracks. I'd probably not return to this too much in the future. Favorite tracks: Terrible Love, Afraid of Everyone, Bloodbuzz Ohio, Conversation 16, England.
This album is a nice one. I didn’t listen to this originally due to time constraints, but now I like it. I love how Matt Berninger’s voice flows through every note. The instrumentals are clean and smooth, like how a nice indie album should be, and the harmonies are dense and altogether, which makes for some amazing dissonance. 4.3/5 Fav: “Anyone’s Ghost”, “Little Faith”, “Lemonworld” Least Fav: None
Really nice album. Vocals match the storytelling. Great backing track. Felt the pain of heartbreak throughout. 8
So bad. This "1001 albums" list is so full of intolerable garbage like this that it makes me want to give up this endeavor.
Didn’t listen to the whole thing but loved what I heard
Kinds boring.
The sort of album you'd have seen advertised on TV in the UK in the early 2010s with a breathless voiceover from Zane Lowe, deeming it to be the album of the decade. It isn't. It's not bad but nothing much really stood out. Lots of layers and textures that benefit from being heard on a decent set of cans but no hooks or stand out months. I can why some people hate it.
Afraid of everyone, Conversation 16 England
Not for me. Don't like the guys voice. Instrumentals are decent
Favourite Song: Terrible Love I knew Terrible Love already and had always liked it. The other songs can feel quite samey. An enjoyable album, but could be easily skipped if you weren't in the mood.
# Playlist track - Terrible Love # Notes - Great opening. "Terrible love" really fills the room. - From there it's a great listen, but the opening kind of muddles it all for me.
He mumbles terribly and they play the same 3 chords over and over. Lyrics are non-sensical.
Enjoyed that a lot. Will definitely listen to more from The National. 3.5
Couldn't get into this. Very melancholy & turned into background noise very quickly.
snoozefest
Album 299 of 1001 The National - High Violet Rating : 3 / 5 Good album. Reminder that a '3' is not a bad album. I wouldn't mind listening to this again or to others from them. Had never heard of them before this. Have a nice vibe to them.
HL: “Runaway”, “Terrible Love”, “Afraid of Everyone”, “England” Having not really listened to the National, I’m getting very 2000s-indie-stadium, eg Coldplay & Arcade Fire. (Brian Cox Succession meme) “I fucking love it here!” Not all of it is enthralling, with some sleepy moments (see also: Parachutes & the Suburbs), but overall I feel uplifted, like I’ve just endured an inspirational montage where all my life’s hardships pay off in the end. Can see how Berninger’s bassy voice isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m all for more bassy voices in pop & rock— having one myself 🎤 🐟 January 24, 2024
Vocals weren't my thing, but I didn't hate it as a whole. Probably a 3.5 from me personally
Amazing vocals, music arrangement and production. I had only heard one song on this album before and the rest is amazing.
I had not heard them before. What a great band!
Brooding and dark in all the best ways. What incredible songwriting from the Cincinnati band. There’s an eerie mix of post punk and early 21st century U2 here. This is an album that’s digested whole even though the parts themselves are still equally affecting.
Very nice!
Radio rock music, not bad but very samey. I liked the singer's deep voice. Stand-out: Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks
Dark, brooding and I loved every second. Great album.
PENIS!
I liked the sound of the band. The lead singer's voice was a bit too deep for me.
# 145 : it's Ok, nothing pulls you in, no hits, Slow and steady and kind of a bit boring.
Gut anzuhören.
The best pure indie album I’ve gotten so far on this list. Nice full sound quality, good production and songwriting. I particularly liked the end of the album with England Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks
Stupidly boring. They sound like they don't like what they're doing.
Ohio. 7.1.24. Kinda borring. Sounds all the same.
Zzzzzzzz
Not bad but not the genre I’d listen to on a regular basis.
Wunderschön melodisch-melancholisch, eine Entdeckung
Another discovery. Artfull modern sort of post-punk
Last 4 songs really save this form being sub mediocre melancholy bs
A couple songs are ok but overall do not like the dreary monotonous voice.
Very good
It just became more more annoying as it went on.
I like The National so this should be right up my alley but it's perfectly average. Just straight down the middle.
2/5 Not my type of rock.
World’s most boring album
Terrible singing pretentious and monotonous singing voice. Really poor lyricism which is driven by storytelling but of such a cliché topics.
The National is pretty hit or miss for me. When a song hits, it really hits. This album by them, for me, has just a bit more misses than hits.
Enjoyable album, if a bit dreary. Rich, moody, resonant sound. The lyrics can get cryptic and comically repetitive at times. Fave Songs: Runaway, Sorrow, Conversation 16, Anyone's Ghost, Terrible Love, England
Decent.
Pretty chill
was ok, very samey though
Feels like walking through pea soup. I can understand the sentiment but the songs and structure of the album didn’t speak to me. The quality of the band is there though.
the droning tone of his voice starts to get to u after a while its meh
A band I keep hearing about but haven't actually listened to much. I liked this OK, though it seems comfortably and not very remarkably ensconced in its particular genre of gen-x generated post-grunge alt-rock.
Excellent album. Always felt that The National get overlooked.
Despite quality production and some cool instrumentation, this album is boring. I think it's because of the lead singer's bland vocals. It's fine if I'm listening to just one song, but drags when I'm listening to a whole album. Give me some emotion in the vocals because when I zone out the lyrics, I need something else to connect with.2.8.
I've always associated The National with music to fall asleep to. This should be something... It's interesting how the lyrics are written around the music, I feel like it gives their sound a different vibe from other bands. I think I might be liking this?
Dismal vocals ruin the whole album, otherwise the music is OK
3.3 . Smiths Esq.
I actually saw The National in concert when they were on tour promoting this album in 2010. I'm not sure I'd ever heard of them before then, but our friend group was going so we joined them. I'd just moved down from the actual, literal arctic and wasn't used to being in crowds. Long story short, standing in the packed GA section ended up causing me to have a panic attack and I had to leave. So those are the memories I went into this album with on this fine winter's morn. It did help that my brother informed me that he thinks this is a 10/10 album. Anyway, I can understand why people like The National. I think it's high quality stuff, it's just a bit dreary for me. Some of the songs seemed really familiar.
Notable Songs: Terrible Love
1. Lyrics The lyrical prowess of Matt Berninger shines throughout "High Violet." Darkly evocative and rich in metaphor, Berninger captures the anxieties of modern domestic life with characters and vignettes crafted in loving detail[3][5]. The shadowy metaphors set the tone, with themes ranging from love to existential dread[3]. 2. Music The music in "High Violet" is a visceral experience, characterized by its depth and color. The album is not instantly accessible, lacking an equivalent to the widely acclaimed "Fake Empire"[6]. The sound is both triumphant and reassuring, with Bryan Devendorf's drums propelling the album[2][4]. 3. Production The meticulous production of "High Violet" elevates it to a sonic masterpiece. The color and depth of the music are integral, touching the heart and soul with a profound emotional impact[1][2]. The album's cohesive sonic palette creates an immersive experience, enhancing the impact of Berninger's lyrics[1]. 4. Themes The themes in "High Violet" resonate with universal emotions. Berninger's lyrics explore love, fear, and existential angst, weaving a tapestry that reflects the complexities of the human experience[3]. The album's thematic richness adds layers of meaning, making it a compelling and introspective journey. 5. Influence "High Violet" has left an indelible mark on indie and alternative music, influencing subsequent artists. Its unique blend of lyrical depth and musical intricacy has set a standard for emotionally resonant albums[1][4]. Pros and Cons Pros Lyrical Brilliance: Berninger's lyricism is a standout, offering a profound exploration of the human psyche. Immersive Sound: The album's music and production create a captivating and immersive sonic experience. Influence: "High Violet" has had a lasting impact on the indie music landscape. Cons Accessibility: Lack of an instantly accessible track akin to "Fake Empire" might make the album less approachable for some listeners.
Started out promising and then just completely stalled. Bland indie music.
One of my favorite bands. Great album.
Found it pretty boring. The live versions on deluxe edition were pretty good tho. Rating: 2.4
Good album solid indie vibes
This is an amazing album. It was the first National album I heard that hooked me on their music and then I went back through their catalog from here. Great songwriting and lyrics throughout. It's a 5/5 for me. Standout Tracks: Terrible Love *, Anyone's Ghost, Little Faith, Afraid of Everyone, Bloodbuzz Ohio *, Lemonworld *, Runaway, Conversation 16 *, England *, Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks * * I like nearly every song on here, so the ones with *s are standouts of standouts.
it was ok
Such a unique sounding band that doesn't seem to fall into a gimmick of that uniqueness.
The National are the poster child of this genre of Indie that thrives on simple arrangements that build to a crescendo that was engineered in a laboratory to make you feel like you’re feeling something. It’s perfectly inoffensive, but in a way that is difficult to care a whole lot about. Some nice stuff, but ultimately unremarkable to me. Top tracks: Terrible Love, Afraid Of Everyone, Bloodbuzz Ohio
Some really great tracks with cool vocals, but then it all just blends into that 2010s alternative you hear everywhere. Makes a lot of sense Taylor Swift likes these guys. It is so close to being good, but ends up being bland and generic with notes of spice
Tremendous stuff. I hadn't listened to The National much lately, but this album brought them flooding back to me and I'm now embarking on a major deep dive. Matt's voice is absolutely on great form throughout this and the intensity of the music is great.
Highly polished but spare music with literate lyrics. Not bad.
slow and whiny, not for me
This might be a controversial statement, but the National are just a mediocre indie band. I’m not sure I can ever get behind a band with a vocalist as bland as Matt Berninger. It’s like listening to milk sing about the heartache of being a cow. It doesn’t click with me.
4.5/5
Strong album! 4.5
National- I actually never heard this one before. I really love the sound of this record. There are some awesome textures and they all gel really nicely together in the mix. After avalanches and fatboy slim this was super refreshing. 4.5
Really nice. Love this band and this album. I like boxer and alligator more than this one. I like runaway. 4.5
This album is so so good. Sorrow has always been my favorite lyrically. Afraid of everyone and blood buzz are great too. 10/5
Beautiful, felt pretty melancholic which is an emotion I strongly connect to. The songs were pretty similar but I liked the sound.
Not my favourite album of theirs but loved it
Not that big fan of The National, though some of my favorite songs from them come from this album
Liked it. First song was really good - new folk with electronic hard edge
2.8
I can only handle a few songs at time from this band, a whole album is too much for me. Just maybe write one song that sounds different and not wrist slitting depressive.
I’m a fan of The National and this record and Boxer are 2 of my favorites. They have truly unique style, especially Berninger’s vocals, but also the percussion and composition.
I listened to this a lot when it came out, but i haven't revisited it since. It's sad Monday music but I liked it. Terrible Love will be in the rotation now.
I hadn't heard this The National before, but I liked it. I'll be adding it to my rotation.
Decent album, probably if I was still a depressed 15 yo I would enjoy it even more. =)
Generic melancholy 2/5
awesome
Ugh. Yes. Bloodbuzz Ohio is one of my absolute favorite songs.
Too dreary and monotonous for me
It's fall listening, cosy, akin to wearing an old jumper.
Straight 4
This album was incredible. 5/5
Drab, sad and most offensively of all - deathly dull.
Too melodramatic for my taste
Meh - ok
As a fan of The National, I don't believe "High Violet" to be their best album. My favorite National album is "Trouble Will Find Me," but then "High Violet" and "I Am Easy to Find" are probably tied for second. Musically, though, I believe "Sleep Well Beast" to be their most interesting album that I also return to. The National have mostly become a caricature of themselves, at this point, with their 2023 releases. However, I still appreciate Berninger's lyrics, and "Bloodbuzz Ohio" is one of their songs that affected me the most, as I'm also from Ohio. I still have a distinct memory of driving to Ohio with my little toddlers in their carseats, playing "Bloodbuzz Ohio," and getting teary eyed about the thoughts of how I return to the state and the place my family has been for several generations, "but Ohio don't remember me."
It was ok
It was a moody indie album that still felt too cool to actually be upfront with its feelings and used OK stories instead
I think I liked it!? I’ll have to listen to it again and see if it grabs me.
Skemmtilegt band og fín plata. Hef ekki mikið hlustað á áður en mun líklegast skella henni á fóninn af og til í framhaldinu ef ég man eftir henni. Ekkert meistarastykki samt.
Skítugt sound í hljóðfæraleiknum - fíla það ekki. Einhver tilgerð í þessu. Þetta á við "Sorrow". Önnur lög, t.d. Anyone's Ghost, mun betri. Þessi plata vinnur mikið á - Mjög góð.
I liked it! Lead singer has a small vocal range and uses it to good effect; a good listen!
The National maken muziek voor mannen in een midlifecrisis. De teksten portretteren veelal zoekende figuren die ergens waggelen tussen hun existentiële crisis en verdovende middelen. Muzikaal is het de strakke drums die de zenuwachtigheid waarmee deze mensen in het leven staan tot uiting brengt. Het bariton geneuter van Matt Berninger is het stemmetje in uw hoofd dat willekeurig neurotische hersenkronkelzijsprongen maakt. Ik ben ergens in 2009 een fanboy geworden met Boxer en Alligator, de 2 voorgangers van deze, veelvuldig op repeat. Volgens mijn last.fm statistieken staat nog steeds The National op nummer 2 van mijn meest beluisterde bands aller tijden. (Op 1 staan The Beatles met een redelijke voorsprong) Ik keek naar mini-docu's over deze band, zocht zowat alle rariteiten en demo's op Youtube. Ze werden de soundtrack voor mijn uniefjaren. 2 paar broers en een melancholische dronkaard hadden van hun druilerige indierock precies anthems voor het leven gemaakt. Queue in High Violet. Ik sprong een gat in de lucht met de singles. Ik viel weer uit diezelfde lucht toen ik zag dat die gasten aan het doorbreken waren. Het stuur gedraaid richting uitverkochte megazalen. Studio Brussel dat Bloodbuzz Ohio en Terrible Love platdraait. Van extreem vroeg geprogrammeerd staan in de marquee naar een topslot op de mainstage. Ik had het niet zien aankomen. Ik dacht dat ze van de grootteorde van Okkervil River of iets dergelijks gingen blijven. In 2011 op Main Square Festival een voor mij heilige indiedrievuldigheid The National - Fleet Foxes - Arcade Fire live mogen aan het werk zien, het was wonderbaarlijk. Ze konden het, en met de High Violet nummers live tot mij te nemen, had ook die plaat een plek veroverd in mijn hart. Vanderlyle volledig onversterkt over een wei horen galmen, is gewoon pure magie. The National, je bent er voor of niet. Ik was in die periode enorm grote voorstander. Met de platen erna begon ik mijn voeling met hun werk wat te verliezen, maar de singles waren nog altijd uitstekend. Nu is het zo ver gekomen dat ik de singles soms gewoon op de radio ontdek. Ze zijn geen reden meer waarom ik per se naar een bepaald festival zou gaan. Hardcore fanboy af dus, maar hun oude werk zit nog wel in de rotatie hier thuis, waaronder deze doorbraakplaat High Violet.
Een slecht album kan ik dit niet noemen, het is gewoon echt mijn ding niet. Het is voor mij vaak gewoon gezaag, te "wenerig" en het ambetantste van al is dat ik zijn zangstijl echt niet kan hebben. Dat maakt het voor mij moeilijk een album ervan uit te luisteren. En die doo doo doo doo altijd in Lemonworld, wie vond dat een goed idee? Irritant man. De titel conversation 16 vat het wel goed samen: je telt gewoon de gesprekken, want het blijft maar duren. Twee sterren voor de muziek kunnen er nog af (als ik zijn stem weg denk).
Wat Tom zei.
Historically, when I came across a band signed to 4AD, I would anticipate that they'll be somehow avant-garde, emotionally expressive, and psychologically unsettling. It seems like after the 90's sometime the label veered off of that persuasion to draw in "indie" bands absent the challenging "artiness" including The National. In this record they sound soothing and morosely bland, and of the time in ~2010, it seems like they could break out into a "stomp, clap, shout" at any time. The songwriting and musicianship are inane and vacuous like corporate telephone hold music, and the singer sounds like his sleeping pills are kicking in.
Lots of the same. But not bad, overall.
S’ok. Kind of like a sad colour of grey in music form.
Really good music - but I've also struggled a bit with the vocalist, he just seems bored.
Thought I would like their sound but it really got boring on me. Fairly samey.