The National

In July 2009, when The National took the stage at Ottawa Bluesfest, they were riding high on the success of their critically acclaimed album *Boxer*, which had been released in 2007. This album really marked a turning point for the band, showcasing their signature sound layered with introspective lyrics and atmospheric melodies. The live performance captured during the festival is particularly noteworthy, as it highlighted their growing fanbase and established them as a formidable force in indie rock. Interestingly, by this time, the band had already started to attract attention not only for their music but also for their emotionally resonant live shows, evidenced by frontman Matt Berninger's magnetic stage presence. As they played some fan favorites from *Boxer*, the performance served as a bridge to what would come next—*High Violet*, released in 2010, further solidifying their status in the music world. It’s fascinating to see how that live energy in Ottawa foreshadowed the even broader acclaim they would soon achieve.

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