The National are a great band we should keep discussing.

[gump]

Yeah, the album version has an intangible quality that really stands out. The song really picks up halfway through, which takes it to a whole new level.

 

[phanan]

I like both.

.

 

[LemonMelon]

I also like both, it just depends on the context in which I'm listening to it. The alternate version would sound tame and slick on the album, especially in the opening slot, but the album version builds up in a way that makes the song function well in such a slot. Out of context though, the haziness and lo-fi quality bugs me, albeit only slightly.

In short: the production matters as far as sequencing is concerned, but it's a good song no matter what.

 

[blueeyedgirl]

I think the album version of Terrible Love is the best thing on the album, frankly.

Yes, the alternate version does sound neutered. It sounds drained and polite and completely lacking the oceanic turbulence (appropriate, no?) of the original.

Add moi to the list. In fact, gonna listen to it right now...

 

[iron yuppie]

It's a common practice for a doting man to ballerina on the coffee table cock-in-hand.

 

[Imperor]

Fetish, bro. But it is indeed. I'm gonna ballerina if we win this meaningless bowl game.

 

[iron yuppie]

Rookie error on my part. Karen is surging in my estimation, though. Good call from all of you.

 

[djerdap]

Patterns of Fairytales deserves more love. Sad Songs is full of hidden gems like that one.

 

[IWasBored]

I still like the alternate version of Terrible Love more than the original.

Me too.

 

[IWasBored]

"lucky you" is an awesome album closer.

 

[iron yuppie]

Fake Empire just gets more poignant with each passing day. What a genuinely great song.

 

[IWasBored]

Fake Empire just gets more poignant with each passing day. What a genuinely great song.

the drums in that song are in fact, that emoticon's main purpose is to describe that song. don't believe a word the plebans say.

 

[PhilsFan]

Bryan Devendorf is incredible.

 

[nielsgov]

The drums are an integral part to lots of The National tracks indeed, especially on the later albums. I can't say that for many other bands I like.

Brainy

 

[iron yuppie]

What better way to start Valentine's Day than by listening to Available?

 

[u2popmofo]

Boxer is one of the items I'm gifting to someone today.

 

[LemonMelon]

It's actually just a box.

 

[u2popmofo]

I was going to give High Violet, but assumed the first track wouldn't come across very well.

 

[IWasBored]

 

[iron yuppie]

Okay, City Middle has probably climbed into my top ten National songs.

 

[PhilsFan]

I think I'm like Tennessee Williams.

 

[cobl04]

Probably still in my bottom 10.

 

[LemonMelon]

If it were about 20-30 seconds shorter, I would consider it one of my favorites. It rambles a bit, which I suppose is the point, but I often wish Mr. November would start during those 20-30 seconds.

 

[cobl04]

I wish Mr November started after Abel.

I really dislike the tracklisting on the whole album, come to think of it.

 

[PhilsFan]

i don't mind it. it is not the best it could be, but the whole album is one mood so pretty much anything would have worked.

 

[nielsgov]

Okay, City Middle has probably climbed into my top ten National songs.

It's been in mine for a while now. Third best song on the album behind Karen and Geese.

 

[LuckyNumber7]

I've been on a National? The National? [awkward wording] listening spree as of recent. Both High Violet and Boxer are two excellent albums.

 

[Jive Turkey]

Boxer is one of the items I'm gifting to someone today.

Clean or dirty?

 

[PhilsFan]

I've been on a National? The National? [awkward wording] listening spree as of recent. Both High Violet and Boxer are two excellent albums.

You have made a great decision.

 

[nielsgov]

I've been on a National? The National? [awkward wording] listening spree as of recent. Both High Violet and Boxer are two excellent albums.

Next in line is Alligator. It's their best according to me (and many others).