10 Perfect 2000s Rock Albums With No Bad Songs
4. Alligator – The National (2005)
The National are one of those bands that everybody is vaguely aware of but can't name more than one song. Despite the critical acclaim of albums like Boxer (2007) and Trouble Will Find Me (2013), they seem to reside in a realm reserved for cult bands. Indeed, if you ever meet a fan of The National you're likely to be subjected to an impassioned and in depth analysis of all their merits. But, you'd be wrong not to listen...
Coming out of the door Alligator gives you a pretty clear impression as to why this band has such appeal. There's a richness to this album and a real warmth in the musical arrangements. The drums are consistent but not overpowering, the guitar melodies are comforting and somehow familiar and the bass adds the depth. But the real charm comes in the form of all the keys and string sections that accent the various tracks with just enough haunting beauty to evoke some real emotion.
Matt Berninger's vocals are the cherry on top of the cake. With suitably ambiguous lyrics set to music that feels both sombre and hopeful, his baritone delivery only adds to the richness of this record.