First Two Pages Of Frankenstein Songs - The National

The National’s ninth studio album, First Two Pages of Frankenstein, marks a significant chapter in the band's evolving sound, blending intricate arrangements, atmospheric depth, and poignant collaborations. After years of consistent evolution, First Two Pages of Frankenstein arrives as a thoughtful, emotionally charged work that explores a blend of vulnerability and grandeur. It also signals an exciting new phase for the band, as it is their first release since guitarist Aaron Dessner's rise as a producer for top-tier pop artists, including his ongoing collaboration with Taylor Swift.

A Star-Studded Album with Notable Collaborations

One of the standout features of First Two Pages of Frankenstein is its impressive guest lineup, bringing together some of the most influential voices in contemporary music. Taylor Swift, who has worked closely with Aaron Dessner since 2020, makes a notable appearance on the track "The Alcott," which she co-wrote and performs on. This partnership between The National and Swift marks another artistic intersection of indie and pop worlds, with a seamless blend of their distinctive styles.

Along with Swift, First Two Pages of Frankenstein also features contributions from two other remarkable artists: Sufjan Stevens and Phoebe Bridgers. Stevens lends his ethereal voice to the haunting opening track "Once Upon a Poolside," setting the tone for an album that oscillates between melancholy and beauty. Bridgers, known for her evocative songwriting and unique vocal style, adds backing vocals to "This Isn't Helping" and "Your Mind Is Not Your Friend," lending the album an added layer of emotional depth.

Tracklist Breakdown

The album opens with "Once Upon a Poolside," a beautifully atmospheric track that sets the mood for the album’s reflective and emotional journey. Featuring Stevens, the song’s orchestral composition and melancholic piano lines draw listeners into a deeply introspective space. The combination of Stevens' signature falsetto and Matt Berninger’s commanding baritone creates an almost cinematic atmosphere, making it one of the album's standout moments.

Next up is "Eucalyptus," which carries a more upbeat, rhythmic pulse but still maintains the brooding melancholy that The National is known for. The track’s subtle build-ups and complex instrumentation add texture to the band's signature indie-rock sound.

"New Order T-Shirt" delivers a slightly more pop-driven vibe, with its catchy hooks and introspective lyrics reflecting the band's ability to balance personal storytelling with broader emotional themes. Following this is "This Isn't Helping," which features Phoebe Bridgers' delicate backing vocals, adding an ethereal layer to the track's exploration of personal struggles and emotional distance.

The album’s title track, "Tropic Morning News," delves into the chaos of the modern world with a sense of urgency, combining sparse instrumentation with intense lyricism. It’s a track that captures the restless energy of contemporary life, offering a sense of introspection amid the noise of external forces.

"Alien" is one of the more experimental tracks, offering an unsettling vibe, layered with rich textures and dissonant melodies that contrast with the album’s more straightforward moments. As the album progresses, it continues to showcase the band's capacity to explore diverse sounds, all while maintaining a strong emotional core.

"The Alcott," featuring Taylor Swift, is a beautiful and haunting ballad that combines Berninger’s raw vocals with Swift’s tender contributions, blending their contrasting styles into something truly compelling. The track explores the complexities of love and longing, encapsulating the lyrical poignancy that defines much of the album.

"Grease In Your Hair" and "Ice Machines" continue the album’s exploration of personal struggle and emotional turmoil, while the powerful closing tracks, "Your Mind Is Not Your Friend" and "Send For Me," leave listeners with a lingering sense of emotional weight. The former, with Bridgers' backing vocals, weaves a tale of inner conflict, while the latter closes the album on a note of quiet vulnerability, leaving space for reflection.

The National's Musical Evolution

First Two Pages of Frankenstein is an album that both honors the band’s roots and embraces their new directions. The involvement of Aaron Dessner in the production, influenced by his work with artists like Swift and Bridgers, is evident in the polished yet emotionally resonant sound that characterizes the album. The collaborations throughout the album enhance its multifaceted nature, blending indie rock, folk, and pop elements into something uniquely cohesive.

As with their past albums, The National continues to explore themes of mental health, existential reflection, and the complexity of human relationships. But First Two Pages of Frankenstein also showcases the band’s growth, expanding beyond their signature style while maintaining the vulnerability and emotional depth that their fans have come to love.

Final Thoughts

First Two Pages of Frankenstein is a testament to The National's ability to evolve while staying true to their emotional core. With collaborations from some of the most influential artists of the modern era, the album feels both timely and timeless. As the band explores new sonic territories, they continue to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, making First Two Pages of Frankenstein a must-listen for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.