Staff Editor on September 5th, 2019

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In typically majestic fashion, the National brought their indie-rock poesy to the Greek Theatre on Monday night, closing out Labor Day Weekend with a cathartic show featuring songs that spanned their deep catalog.

The die-hards were ready for it, giving frontman Matt Berninger a rousing welcome at the first note of his brooding baritone. Backed ably by the brothers Dessner (Aaron and Bryce), the brothers Devendorf (Scott and Bryan) and new backup singers Hannah Georgas and Kate Stables, Berninger gave a characteristically ardent performance. Mic in hand, he got into the crowds’ faces from the get-go, standing precariously atop the railing and eventually wading into the masses between Sections A and B.

The band’s 26-song set showcased songs from their latest album, “I Am Easy to Find,” their eighth, highlighted by “Rylan,” “Quiet Light” and “The Pull of You” (which started the show), and “You Had Your Soul With You,” “Where Is Her Head” and the title track (which came later in the main set). There was a palpable surge of energy when the National performed favorites “Bloodbuzz Ohio,” “Fake Empire” (which closed the main set) and “Mr. November” (during the encore).

Canadiana indie-pop band Alvvays opened the night with a set heavy on songs from their new album “Antisocialites.”

The National setlist: Rylan, Quiet Light, The Pull of You, Hey Rosey, Don’t Swallow the Cap, Bloodbuzz Ohio, Guilty Party, Oblivions, So Far So Fast, Where Is Her Head, I Need My Girl, This Is the Last Time, Day I Die, The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness, Pink Rabbits, England, Light Years, You Had Your Soul With You, I Am Easy to Find, Graceless, Fake Empire. Encore: Not in Kansas, Mr. November, Terrible Love, About Today, Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks

Photos by Samantha Saturday