The National Electrify the Toyota Music Factory

The National delivered an electrifying performance at the Toyota Music Factory, seamlessly synchronizing both the band's prowess and a captivating light show. This marked the grand finale of their tour, setting the stage for their upcoming appearance on the legendary Ed Sullivan theater for David Letterman's return to Late Night.

If you’ve followed the progression of their career, you’re already aware how deep, thoughtful and sometimes emotionally raw their lyrics can be. Each album draws out a feeling of brooding and emotional tension that can cut you to the core. Which is why, I’ll never listen to them the same way again after experiencing this electrifying performance.

Anticipating a slow, moody evening with songs emphasizing emotional over electric power, the stage was set with lights casting a continuous mood of color accentuated by a stage wide video screen. Matt Berninger's deep baritone vocals seamlessly intertwined with the collective guitar work of Aaron and Bryce Dessner, complemented by the rhythmic precision of Bryan and Scott Devendorf on drums and bass in a well-mixed and layered sound which allowed for full enjoyment of each song.

The National exceeded expectations right from the start, proving that their music truly comes alive in a live setting. Each song, whether powerful, poignant, soft, or somber, took on a new texture, breathing individual life beyond their original recordings. The lighting, far from smoky and dark, was a standout element. Credit is due to Lighting Director, Matthew Greer for orchestrating a brilliantly bright, dynamic, and precisely choreographed lighting experience. The massive stage-wide video screen not only offered multiple angles of the musicians but also created a cinematic noir atmosphere that enriched the entire performance designed by, Michael Brown.

Presenting a deep dive setlist that showcased the strength of their extensive catalog, The National made a powerful statement. Opening the show unexpectedly "Eucalyptus," transitioning between songs was nearly seamless, with only brief breaks for Aaron to swap in-ears and Matt expressing gratitude to both the audience and crew, extending warm wishes for the upcoming holidays. The band maintained a continuous musical flow until the end, featuring deep tracks like "Abel" from 2005's "Alligator." Notably, Matt engaged with the audience during "Day I Die" and "Terrible Love," forging a personal connection beyond the stage.

Now, swiftly moving from Dallas to NYC at David Letterman's request for his return to late-night television as a guest on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The National concludes one of their most impressive musical years. Fueled by unparalleled excitement and energy, they are poised to carry this momentum into 2024, promising many more nights of captivating audiences worldwide.

Setlist

Eucalyptus

Tropic Morning News 

New Order T-Shirt

Don't Swallow The Cap

Bloodbuzz Ohio

The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness

I Need My Girl

Apartment Story

Conversation 16

Green Gloves

Lit Up

Abel 

Alien

Laugh Track

Deep End (Paul’s in Pieces)

Smoke Detector

Day I Die

Pink Rabbits

England 

Graceless

Fake Empire

Space Invader

Light Years

Mr. November

Terrible Love 

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