But it seems they did just fine as evidenced by the fact that High Violet has already taken place on the top ten European and U.S. album charts. And not only that, but reviewers around the world, one could say, have applauded it. Perhaps it is no coincidence that it takes the band almost 2-3 years to prepare each time their next record. Large "gaps" but hard work that rewards the audience. It certainly took "hard work" for me to say for sure what piece stands out. Difficult despite consecutive hearings.
Starting the record the Terrible Love makes a gentle and, at the same time, familiar introduction. Continuing in later tracks like Afraid of everyone and Bloodbuzz Ohio one can see that their new work continues to walk in the same style and path as previous albums, which indeed is the reason why we all loved the band. The sound of the incredible guitars of Dessner brothers and the drums of Bryan Devendorf in Anyone's Ghost, which was released as a single a month after the release of the album, hints strongly to a piece of post-punk band of the 70's, Joy Division (key influence to National ).
Runaway and Sorrow (songs that will remind you of Bruce Springsteen ) excite you and the lyrics with the "refusal" of the artist to overcome favorite people and situations in harder, wanting to live as a piece that he has to pass one to make things right. And with the great and commanding voice of Matt Berninger causes a "painless" melancholy that makes your mind travel as many many times as you listen to it. Finally, somewhere I read a random comment about Conversation 16 which I think represents exactly my opinion - " Favorite song. Beautiful. It tells the truth ... "
The High Violet, one could say, is characterized by poetic lyrics with elements of modern indie rock. However, stack in any track, it is certain that the entire album will be appealing. But even if in the first hearing you look drab or similarity to the earlier National songs sounds boring, then you want a still listening to understand that you did wrong and that it is the record that will play on repeat for a long time ...
TRACK LIST
1. Terrible Love
2. Sorrow
3. Anyone's Ghost
4. Little Faith
5. Afraid of Everyone
6. Bloodbuzz Ohio
7 . Lemonworld
8. Runaway
9. Conversation 16
10. England
11. Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks