2020 Charity Shop Purchases 59 - The National - Boxer
When I picked up Alligator my first album by The National a couple of months ago it was obvious that further exploration was required.Therefore I asked for recommendations.Echorich replied that all their albums were essential but in particular Boxer and High Violet.
Therefore it was another no- brainer when I saw Boxer on the shelves in Fort William. From 2007 on Beggars Banquet it is the follow up to 2005's Alligator. High Violet is the next one from 2010 so this was perhaps their purple patch?
There were three singles from the album - Mistaken For Strangers, Apartment Story and Fake Empire. All good songs but I have gone for another two. Squalor Victoria was the one that immediately jumped out and grabbed me.Sufjan Stevens, a neighbour of band members the Dessner brothers, makes an appearance on Racing Like a Pro
I've now got my eyes peeled for High Violet.
The National - Squalor Victoria
The National - Racing Like a Pro
I know nothing about The National, but that second track si very good. I detect a strong Sufjan influence. You really should get hold of Come On Feel The Illinoise (or ask a friend if they can help)!
ReplyDeleteIf only I had friends like that!
DeleteFor me, this was probably the last great National album. I couldn't get into High Violet, though I still like his voice and will always give them the time of day.
ReplyDeleteENJOY!!! I do on a regular basis. Boxer is one of the stand out albums of the 21st Century - so far - for me.
ReplyDeleteI recommend the latest Sufjan Stevens album as well - The Ascension. Much of it's themes are timely and impactful.