The National

In May 2009, The National was riding high on the wave of their critically acclaimed album, "Boxer," which had been released two years prior, in 2007. Their performance of "Fake Empire" at the Metropolis in Montreal captures the band at a significant moment in their evolution—both musically and in terms of their growing popularity. By this time, they had solidified their signature sound, characterized by Matt Berninger's deep baritone and the rich, atmospheric instrumentals provided by the band. Interestingly, "Boxer" was a defining work for them, establishing a heightened emotional depth that resonated with fans. The Montreal show, while noted as "a little short," showcases their engaging stage presence and the strong connection they’ve built with their audience, hinting at the larger arena tours that would soon follow as they climbed to greater heights in the indie rock scene.

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