Name: The National (Reissue)
Brand: The National

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

4AD0312LP

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Colour

Black

Colour details

Discogs ID

[r17324587]

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Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2021-02-26

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

PIAS

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

191400031210

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Total Cap

1 / Extended format: No / LP / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No / black

4AD0312CD

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191400031227

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1 / CD / Extended format: No / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No

Artist

The National

Genre GB

Alternative / Modern

Label GB

The influential 4AD label was started in 1980 by music enthusiasts Ivo Watts-Russell and Peter Kent with financial help from Beggars Banquet, whose record store chain the pair worked for. Originally called Axis, they released an initial series of four 7" singles before finding out that the name Axis was already being used by another label. They quickly came up with a new name, 4AD, inspired by typography on a flyer announcing their releases. Under Ivo Watts-Russell's guidance, drawing influence from other UK indie labels such as Beggars Banquet, Postcard Records and Factory, 4AD quickly established a unique identity thanks to both the cover designs of Vaughan Oliver/v23 and the label's unique numbering system.

In 1992, 4AD entered a highly publicized Stateside distribution deal with Warner Bros. Records, opening offices in New York headed up by Robin Hurley. The label was largely run from California for most of the decade after Ivo Watts-Russell moved to Los Angeles in the mid-90s. In November 1999 it was announced that Martin Mills had taken over as chairman and relocated its HQ to London.

Decoding their unique numbering system reveals various formats like mail-order only releases (4AD), LPs (CAD), MP3 downloads (EAD), posters (FAD), videos (VAD) and more. The numeric portion of their catalog numbers

The National is an American indie rock band formed in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1999. The band consists of Matt Berninger (vocals), Aaron Dessner (guitar, keyboards), Bryce Dessner (guitar), Scott Devendorf (bass) and Bryan Devendorf (drums). Known for their introspective lyrics and melancholic sound, The National has released numerous critically acclaimed albums over the years. Their music often explores themes of love, loss, and personal struggles, resonating with a wide audience. With their distinctive blend of alternative rock and indie folk influences, The National continues to captivate listeners worldwide.

Since their debut album "The National" in 2001, the band has gained a loyal following and received widespread recognition for their unique musical style. Their breakthrough came with the release of "Alligator" in 2005, which showcased their ability to create emotionally charged songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Subsequent albums like "Boxer" and "High Violet" further solidified their reputation as one of the most influential indie rock bands of our time.

In addition to their studio albums, The National has also collaborated with various artists and contributed to soundtracks for films such as "Win Win" and "Ex Machina." They have performed at major music festivals around the world and continue to tour extensively. With each new release, The National pushes boundaries creatively while staying true to their signature sound. Their evocative

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 bandlife 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 stop you in your tracks.

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.

Having been remastered at Abbey Road Studios, the 2021 represses stay faithful to their original artwork while their stunning new masters help make these much-loved records sound as vital as ever, further emphasising the early signs of the sound that would go on to make them one of the fi nest and most beloved alternative bands of their generation.