The National’s self-titled debut arrived two years after the band formed, a time when they were juggling bandlife with needing to hold down full-time jobs. And while nods to the alt. rock artists that inspired them (Pavement, Silver Jews) can be heard, so too are the beginnings of something all their own – Matt Berninger’s stunning and unexpected lyrics being pinned to melodies that stop you in your tracks.

Disc 1
1. Beautiful Head – The National (3.08)
2. Cold Girl Fever – The National (4.06)
3. The Perfect Song – The National (3.15)
4. American Mary – The National (4.02)
5. Son – The National (5.19)
6. Pay for Me – The National (3.22)
7. Bitters & Absolut – The National (4.00)
8. John’s Star – The National (3.04)
9. Watching You Well – The National (3.02)
10. Theory of the Crows – The National (4.36)
11. 29 Years – The National (2.50)
12. Anna Freud – The National (3.07)