Often classified as an alt.country band, Daniel Cressey, however, finds a digusied pop-sensibility in American band the National's first-rate show at the Koko in London
Why the National are not universally feted is something of a mystery. Previous albums have captured their knack of writing desolate songs that still manage to be fiendishly tuneful and tonight’s performance is similarly top class. Although they may lack something in stage presence and charisma this could simply be being enigmatic. In a set of raw emotion unhindered by irony or self-protection the National put not a foot wrong. Although probably classifiable as alt-country there’s a disguised pop-sensibility in all their songs. Rarely is bleak so well executed and compelling. The more rambling elements of some of their recorded work – where two songs are occasionally welded together into an engagingly misshapen monster – are tamed and the band seem focused on keeping the momentum going. The National retain the power to twist their talent to the service of the unexpected however. Screaming rage can erupt from the middle of the most beautiful choruses. Despite seeming balance in their calm moments there’s always the impression of circling sharks below the surface. The photographs that accompany this article were taken Laurent Orseau and originally appeared on the website http://www.hinah.com