The National - Alligator (2005)

Don't you hate it when you find an album that is so good that you want to tell all your friends about it, yet you're unable find the appropriate words to describe just how good it is. Brooding, melancholic, self-deprecating, pretty bloody amazing. So many adjectives, and yet there lies a place for all of them. Lines - sung with tongue firmly in cheek - such as "I used to be carried in the arms of cheerleaders" or "This time the motorcade will have to go around me, because God is on my side" make this album an great one. The National have been quietly going about their business as a five piece band, living in Brooklyn, for a few years and a couple of releases now. They have thus far managed to fly under the musical radar, however, it looks like 2005 will be their year to shine - that is, if there is any justice in the world. The songs vary from slow, brooding gems to straight up rockers - with much in between - all of which are very cool. Lyrically, The National display significant talent, with storytelling abilities to match those of the songwriting greats, while the music serves to create a moving, moody canvas for the stories to be painted on. The album is awesome from the first listen, however, the more you listen the better it gets. There is so much going on that you find something new each time. It really is very good.

Check out: http://www.myspace.com/thenational