The National

On May 15, 2011, The National performed 'Exile Vilify' live at the Cincinnati Music Hall, marking its debut performance. This song, part of the soundtrack for the popular video game Portal 2, showcases the band's distinctive sound with haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. Leading up to this moment, The National had recently released their critically acclaimed album 'High Violet' in May 2010, which elevated their status and helped them gain a wider audience. Featuring rich instrumentation and emotional depth, 'High Violet' cemented their place in the indie rock scene. This performance is particularly memorable not just for its exclusivity but also for the collaboration with Owen Pallett, a celebrated violinist and composer. His presence added a unique layer to the live rendition, making this event a significant milestone in The National's evolving career.

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