Re: The National - Sleep Well Beast (2017) [CD 320]
Abele Beardsley
The National - Sleep Well Beast (2017) [CD 320]
Sleep Well Beast is the seventh studio album by the American indie rock band The National, released on September 8, 2017, by 4AD. The album won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album in 2018. [1]
The album features a more experimental and diverse sound than the band's previous works, incorporating elements of electronic music, art rock, and piano ballads. The lyrics explore themes of politics, marriage, anxiety, and depression, reflecting the personal and social turmoil experienced by the band members during the album's creation. [1]
The album was recorded in various locations, including a barn in Hudson Valley, New York, owned by guitarist Aaron Dessner, who also served as the main producer. The band collaborated with several guest musicians, such as Lisa Hannigan, Justin Vernon, and Sharon Van Etten. The album's artwork and branding were designed by Pentagram, using a black and white photograph of the barn as the main motif. [1] [2]
The album was preceded by five singles: "The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness", "Guilty Party", "Carin at the Liquor Store", "Day I Die", and "I'll Still Destroy You". The album received critical acclaim from music critics, who praised its musical diversity, lyrical depth, and emotional resonance. The album also performed well commercially, reaching the top ten in several countries and becoming the band's first number-one album in the UK. [1] [3]
Sleep Well Beast is a remarkable achievement by The National, showcasing their artistic evolution and maturity. The album is a captivating and cathartic listen that explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions in turbulent times. [4] [5]
References:
- [Wikipedia]
- [Qobuz]
- [Discogs]
- [Spotify]
- [The Jakarta Post]