High Violet

High Violet, the fifth studio album by The National, marks a triumphant milestone in the band’s discography, released on 10 May 2010 in Europe and 11 May in North America via 4AD. Produced in collaboration with Peter Katis, who had previously worked on their acclaimed albums Alligator and Boxer, the recording took place at the band’s Brooklyn studio and Katis’ Tarquin Studios in Connecticut. The haunting sculpture featured on the cover, titled The Binding Force, was crafted by artist Mark Fox, setting the tone for an album steeped in emotional depth.

The lead-up to the album’s release was masterful, beginning with a stunning live performance of opening track “Terrible Love” on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon on 10 March 2010. The first single, “Bloodbuzz Ohio,” generated significant buzz when it became available for download on 24 March, further cementing the band’s reputation for poignant lyricism and evocative melodies. Despite a pre-release leak of the album, The National ingeniously engaged listeners by streaming it on The New York Times and NPR websites, building anticipation for its official launch.

Upon its release, High Violet debuted at number three on the Billboard 200, selling 51,000 copies in its first week—an impressive feat that underscored the band’s growing popularity. The album later saw an expanded edition released on 22 November 2010, including unreleased tracks and live recordings, and a special performance of “Sorrow” played 105 times in a row at an art installation in New York showcased the album’s impact.

The critical reception was overwhelmingly positive, earning an impressive Metacritic score of 85/100. Critics praised High Violet as a defining work for The National, with Pitchfork describing it as “the sound of a band taking a mandate to be a meaningful rock band seriously.” BBC Music lauded it as the band’s “finest disc to date,” while The Guardian highlighted its beautifully subtle layers that deepen with each listen. This album not only reinforced The National’s status in the indie rock pantheon but also earned accolades, including a Q Award for Best Album and spots on numerous year-end lists.

With songs like “Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks” and “England” finding their way into popular culture—featured in series like Money Heist and during pivotal moments like England’s World Cup victory—High Violet has left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. It has been recognised as a modern classic, earning its place in the 2011 edition of 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die and ranking on Pitchfork’s list of the 200 Best Albums of the 2010s.

Ultimately, High Violet stands as a testament to The National’s artistry, delivering an album that resonates with emotional honesty and musical sophistication, ensuring its relevance for years to come.