The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein Review

I have to admit that despite being a Cincinnati native who has long supported the local music scene, I’ve never been too much into The National. It was guitarist Aaron Dessner’s collaboration with Taylor Swift on the albums Folklore and Evermore that made me pay attention. And I’m so glad I did. Though now I’m disappointed at not having become a fan sooner.

Once Upon a Poolside, featuring Sufjan Stevens pulls you right in. This is hipster lounge music. Matt Berninger’s silky smooth delivery is fantastic and the addition of Stevens is perfect.

On Eucalyptus, the band plays their indie credibility card calling out The Cowboy Junkies and fellow Cincinnati indie rock luminaries, The Afghan Whigs across a sprawling, echoey indie rock dreamscape.

Songs like New Order T-shirt and Ice Machines are the kind of melodic, dreamy indie pop you expect from The National.  Grease in Your Hair and Tropic Morning News pick up the pace a bit with the Dessner brothers rocking out a bit. Matt Berninger’s voice is solid, smokey, and wistful throughout, the perfect indie rock front person.

For me, it’s the collabs that stand out here. My favorite female vocalist, Phoebe Fucking Bridgers appears on two songs adding her angelic, god-like voice to an already impressive presentation of indie rock perfection. And of course, the obligatory Taylor Swift cameo on The Alcott is outstanding. Aaron Dessner’s friendship and professional collaboration with Swift will no doubt continue to pay dividends for years to come.

The First Two Pages of Frankenstein is polished, mature indie rock. The National has probably even been around long enough for them be classified in the dreaded “dad rock” category. Regardless, of classification this is accessible pop, polished rock, full of catchy, melodic engaging songs.