Impressive hue of 'Violet'

Fans of older National works will undoubtedly enjoy “High Violet,” and for those who haven’t yet heard The National, it’s high time to do so. The band has put together another masterpiece to join the ranks of previously acclaimed “Boxer” and “Alligator.”

Musically, “High Violet” keeps listeners engaged from the slowest, most brooding songs to the poppiest, most driven ones. Lyrically, Matt Berninger continues to deliver, singing about growing up and family struggles in his soothing and evocative baritone. Though the drums can become a bit redundant (notice the similarities in rhythm between “Conversation 16” and “Sorrow”), the band has found its niche in the indie-rock scene and is establishing itself as a reigning champion.

Its fifth studio album shows that, while the concerns that drive the songs’ subject matters are aging, The National is alive and still fresh in the ring.

The instruments are memorable, and the album gives off a familiar feeling after just the first play. “High Violet” is a must-have record for 2010.