Thanks Skylarker, realitybites and farcM for adding fuel to my love of The National . Matt Berninger reminds me slightly of an early Moz with his awkwardness on stage between verses of songs at times. Like "what to I do with myself when I'm not singing" His voice while not having a huge range is a great fit in the workings of the songs. As for lyrics, they rival Moz (The Smiths and early in solo days ) with making you think about what is being said . Also the music itself is very layered and complex at times makeing you think ' what instrument made that noise" Plus only the drummer does not sing. I think its cool that everyone will sing back up and do it regularly . Moz has gone away from this and I don't know if it is lack of quality on stage with him or he just does not like it.
I pass through a local college campus fairly regular at times and rarely hear people playing The National either on cars or apartments . Only one time I heard something from High Violet (Bloodbuzz Ohio) so it is nice to know others enjoy them as much as I do. Think I will listen to Trouble Will Find Me now. By the way who is the little kid who comes out and air guitars to the video 'Sea of Love' with them ? Love the video !