Back in 2007, when The National performed "About Today" live at the Tower Theatre, they were on the rise, gaining significant momentum within the indie rock scene. This particular show was part of their tour opening for Arcade Fire, a noteworthy pairing since both bands were carving out their spaces in the music world around that time. Just a year earlier, in 2005, The National released “Alligator,” which really put them on the map, showcasing their unique sound and Matt Berninger's distinctive baritone voice. By May 2007, they were gearing up to launch their next album, “Boxer,” which would come out later that same year and solidify their status. It's interesting to note the palpable energy in that live recording; the band's connection with the audience is electric. You can really hear the anticipation in their sound, highlighting how they'd tapped into something special, blending introspective lyrics with rich instrumentation. This performance marked a pivotal moment in their journey, foreshadowing the critical acclaim that was just around the corner.