One thing has become abundantly clear: The National love playing big shows in London. And, of course, that only really works if London is partial to coming out in numbers to welcome them in.
One All Points East headline in 2022 followed two sold-out shows at Alexandra Palace 13 months later should give you clear evidence that the love is, in fact, requited – and they’re now making it three years on the bounce.
The National have just announced a giant slot at Crystal Palace Park, which holds more gig-goers than the O2 Arena, on July 5, 2024. Bringing the baroque tones of Matt Berninger and soothing sounds of the Dessner and the Devendorf brothers, The National tops what is stacked bill at this open-air summer show. Joining them in south London are Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Kevin Morby, and This Is The Kit, in what is sure to be one of the most anticipated outdoor shows of the summer.
Formed in 1999, The National now have an enviable back catalogue to sift through, which meant that they could play two sets in London in September without repeating a single track across both nights at Alexandra Palace. The duo of shows came in support of their two albums released within five months of each other this year—The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein & Laugh Track—and fans can expect to hear more numbers from both records, including tracks that feature the likes of Phoebe Bridgers, Sufjan Stevens, Rosanne Cash, Bon Iver, and the relatively unknown artist Taylor Swift, who also has an upcoming tour (Eras, is it?) that hits London next summer.
Speaking on the announcement, The National said: “We’re excited to be returning to London next summer, a city we’ve always loved. Crystal Palace is a new neighbourhood to us, although not to the football fans in the band.”
Tickets go on sale for The National at Crystal Palace Park on Friday, November 17 at 10am, and can be booked here.