The National - Live Performance of 'Fake Empire' at Street Scene in San Diego
Venue: East Village
Location: San Diego, California, United States
Date: September 20, 2008
Back in September 2008, when The National delivered their stunning live rendition of "Fake Empire" at the Street Scene festival in San Diego, they were riding high on the critical acclaim of their fourth studio album, *Boxer*. Released in 2007, this album marked a significant evolution in their sound, melding dark lyrical themes with lush instrumentation that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. The live performance showcased their ability to captivate an audience, blending introspective lyrics with an anthemic, almost cinematic quality. Interestingly, despite the growing recognition, the band still operated with a sense of underdog charm at that time, crafting their identity within the indie rock scene. The tensions and resonant emotions expressed through "Fake Empire" perfectly encapsulate their sound—and if you watch that live recording, you can't help but feel the energy and connection with the crowd. It's a moment that signifies not only a live performance, but a turning point for their artistry.
