This was the debut album from Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, Bryan Devendorf, Scott Devendorf, with Bryce Dessner listed under additional performers under “with” rather than as part of the band.

Maybe the harshest reviewed records in The National’s catalog. I’d agree it is not their strongest but it it where it all started. Who knew when this came out what powerhouses they would prove to be, as artists and as collaborators and producers.

Also feels appropriate for the day before the Fourth of July to have a band called The National.

My copy—via Residency Records in Salem MA—is the 2021 reissue (20th anniversary?) on 4AD, pressed at GZ Media.