The National

Ah, The National—what a journey they've taken! By the time they performed "Abel" live in Houston on October 8, 2010, they were riding high on the wave of their acclaimed album *High Violet*, which had dropped earlier that year. This album marked a significant moment in their career, propelling them into mainstream recognition with its hauntingly beautiful soundscapes and introspective lyrics. You can hear that depth reflected in "Abel," a song that captures the band’s signature blend of melancholy and urgency. Interestingly, *High Violet* reached critical acclaim for its craftsmanship and emotional weight, making it a fan favorite. The live setting of the House of Blues allowed them to really connect with their audience in a way that studio recordings can’t quite capture. That evening in Houston was probably electric, filled with the kind of raw emotion that The National is so masterful at conveying. It’s fascinating how nearly a decade later, that performance still resonates—proof of their lasting impact in the indie rock scene.

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