Back to Basics: The National’s Reunification with Peter Katis

The Collaboration with Peter Katis

In a return to their roots, The National has rejoined forces with longtime collaborator Peter Katis. Known for refining iconic albums such as Boxer and High Violet, Katis took a backseat during the production of 2023’s First Two Pages of Frankenstein and Laugh Track, allowing Aaron Dessner’s Long Pond associate Jonathan Low to take the reins. However, Katis’ return has brought a renewed energy to the band, particularly evident in their latest work, Rome.

Mixing Techniques: A Shift Towards Maximalism

Brian King of Japandroids has observed that Katis’ productions often resemble hip-hop mixing, where drums and vocals dominate the soundscape. This characteristic is palpably pronounced in Rome, where drummer Bryan Devendorf’s beats eclipse the rest of the instrumentation. This shift seems to be a reaction against the years of synth-led dominance in their sound. The guitars have transcended mere background texture, becoming integral to the band’s identity, especially in standout tracks like “Tropic Morning News” and the high-energy “Alien.” However, this maximalist approach sometimes overshadows the more subdued songs, such as “New Order T-Shirt,” which, despite its charming nod to ‘90s adult alternative, feels disproportionately grand for its content.

Vocal Inconsistencies and Performance Dynamics

At the heart of The National’s live performances lies frontman Matt Berninger, whose vocal prowess is crucial to the band’s identity. Unfortunately, his vocals have shown signs of inconsistency, with his once-deep baritone now leaning towards a nasal quality. This shift has resulted in a loss of some of the emotional weight that characterized his earlier work. For instance, the “ahs” in the bridge of “Humiliation” lack both pitch and emotional depth, while audience members seem more in tune than he does during “I Need My Girl.” Berninger’s tendency to engage with the crowd can be endearing, yet for newcomers, his breathlessness and occasional off-key notes may detract from the overall experience. His on-stage looseness can be a double-edged sword, similarly to how Aaron Dessner’s refined taste impacts the studio recordings.

The Evolution of The National’s Themes

The selections from their earlier albums in live performances highlight the band’s remarkable journey. Lyrics from Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers, such as “You could have been a legend/But you became a father” from “Slipping Husband,” feel oddly juxtaposed against Berninger’s current life, where he seemingly balances both fatherhood and musical legacy. The National has largely moved past the angst that once defined their sound, making performances of darker tracks like “Murder Me Rachael” from Sad Songs feel dissonant. Similarly, the satirical “Lit Up” from Alligator loses some of its bite when performed by a band that has achieved significant commercial success, contrasting sharply with the years when they were a more ephemeral act.

Conclusion

The National’s choice to reunite with Peter Katis marks a notable chapter in their evolving sound. While the mix has shifted towards a more robust, maximalist style, the band continues to grapple with the complexities of their past. Berninger’s vocal journey, along with the thematic evolution reflected in their setlist, illustrates the tension between nostalgia and growth. As they navigate these waters, The National remains a compelling force in the music landscape, inviting both longtime fans and newcomers to witness their ongoing transformation.

FAQs

1. Who is Peter Katis?

Peter Katis is a record producer known for his work with The National on albums such as Boxer and High Violet. He has recently reunited with the band to produce their latest work, Rome.

2. What is the significance of the album Rome?

Rome represents a return to a more maximalist sound for The National, showcasing a shift in production style and a focus on drums and guitars, as highlighted in tracks like “Tropic Morning News” and “Alien.”

3. How has Matt Berninger’s vocal style changed?

Matt Berninger’s vocals have become more nasal over time, which has affected the emotional depth of his performance. This change has led to inconsistencies in live settings compared to his earlier, more resonant singing style.

4. Why do some older songs feel out of place in current performances?

The National has evolved significantly since their earlier albums, and performing darker, angst-driven songs from their past can feel dissonant against their current themes and life experiences, creating a contrast that may not resonate as strongly with audiences today.