The National - "High Violet"

When I heard The National was working on another album, I imagined them crouched over a pile of vintage guitars and organs, armed with a wall of tube amps and analog recording gear, mumbling into antique ribbon microphones (standard hipster studio posture, I know). After listening to it, I feel like that is exactly what happened - and it is awesome. Add a few orchestrations, a "spash" of brass, and you have the tasteful and enjoyable "High Violet," streaming now on NYT.com. Give it a try.

Having a distinguishable sound these days is tough. In a wash of bands that are trying to sound the same, breaking through the droning of mediocre buzz bands is difficult both for artists and for music fans. The National is a group of artists like no other recording and performing right now. It's not because they are innovative (although they are - they were hip long before it was cool to be that way), and it's not because there aren't people trying to sound just like them. It's a tasteful mix of husky vocals and an outstanding band that clearly listens to its own music. I should not enjoy listening to this guy grumble about social structures and aingst-ridden love tales, but I do. And if I think hard enough, I realize that the National's last three albums have all sounded similar. Normally decried by people who are looking for constant musical "innovation," it comforts me to hear a band developing its sound over time and staying true to its roots as it evolves. The National seems to have this figured out, and I am very excited to pick this album up when it comes out. In the meantime, I will listen to it a few more times while I work. Let me know what you think of it.