The National

On October 6, 2006, The National delivered an electrifying live performance of "Abel" at Neumos in Seattle, a pivotal time for the band. This recording came shortly after the release of their album *Alligator* in 2005, an album that truly helped establish their distinctive sound characterized by brooding lyrics and intricate instrumentation. Interestingly enough, *Alligator* marked the band's breakthrough, attracting a broader audience and critical acclaim. So, by 2006, they were certainly riding the wave of that success, even as they began to experiment more with their sound, which would fully blossom in their following albums. The intimate setting of Neumos allowed them to connect deeply with fans, showcasing their evolution as a live act—something that would come to define their reputation in the years to come. It's fascinating to think how performances like this one helped shape the trajectory of their artistry.

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