Listen: The National Unleash Two Fresh Singles: “Alphabet City” and “Space Invader”

Photo by Josh Goleman

Today, The National unveiled two new tracks, “Alphabet City” and “Space Invader.” The latter comes accompanied by an evocative visualizer crafted under the creative direction of Noah Sacré and Pauline de Lassus – both songs come hot on the heels of their LP First Two Pages of Frankenstein, which was released on April 28.

Within the melancholic embrace of the seven-minute “Space Invader,” frontman Matt Berninger weaves a tapestry of contemplation and introspection. His distinctive and emotive voice croons out alternate scenarios, pondering the roads not taken: “What if I stayed on the/ C train until Lafayette?” he muses.

Similarly, “Alphabet City” receives the visualizer treatment on which de Lassus lends her artistic prowess to the animation and drawings that enrich the animated interpretations and resulting visual journey. Notably, both videos feature photographs by Brent Walter-Ballantyne. On “Alphabet City,” Berninger’s voice is just as vivid this time crafting a tale of presence: “I’ll still be here when you come back from space/ I will listen for you at the door.”

The National are currently on a tour in support of their aforementioned LP. This week, they are set to perform at Madison Square Garden stage in New York City, sharing the limelight with none other than Patti Smith and her band. Later on, they’ll continue their journey with a performance in to Toronto on Aug. 20 followed by a European leg scheduled for September and October.

Enjoy The National’s “Alphabet City” and “Space Invader” below.