Unleash the Energy of The National's "Rome" Live Album

Album Highlights

The National's 10 studio albums are well-represented in "Rome," with eight of them making an appearance. The opener, "Runaway," is a deep cut from the 2010 album "High Violet," demonstrating the band's ability to blend lyrically dreary with melodically uplifting elements. Bryan Devendorf's drumming brilliance shines throughout "Bloodbuzz Ohio" and spreads into "The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness," which is at the heart of their 2017 album "Sleep Well Beast."

The self-described "sad dads" are still rocking hard on this record. During the pandemic, Berninger battled depression, and it shows in some of the songs. For example, in "Eucalyptus" from "Rome," the angst over a close relationship's impending breakup is palpable. However, the genius of Berninger's lyrics performed live lies in the mood-lifting list of household items, such as bottled water and a ceiling fan. This adds a unique touch to their performances.

Berninger's Performance

Berninger's baritone becomes scratchier as the songs progress, which is both a feature and a bug of their performances. "Rome" is not for newbie listeners looking to become diehard fans overnight. Berninger rarely holds back during a show, and "Smoke Detector" in 2023 is a prime example of a song that devolves into a cacophonic mess of top-of-the-lungs screaming.

During the encore, the live-show staple "Terrible Love" from 2010 takes the stage. Berninger typically delights the crowd by trying to body surf while staff frantically try to provide enough slack on the microphone cord. This adds an exciting element to their live shows.

Closing Moments

On the closer, "Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks" from "High Violet," Berninger allows the crowd to take the first verse. As the horns from Benjamin Lanz and Kyle Resnick from the band Beirut punctuate the breaks, the feel-good melody that hides every anxiety-ridden verse resonates to the end, leaving the audience with a lasting impression.