The National played at Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre in support of their excellent new album Sleep Well Beast. Daughter opened up for them with a short and dreamy set.

San Diegans were treated to a generous 22 song set that spanned much of The National’s discography. A lot of the new songs were played, including every fans’ new favorite: “The System Only Dreams In Total Darkness.” And, yes that effortlessly delivered frantic guitar solo rocked live!

This was a different band then what I remember from their last tour–a lot more relaxed and noisier. Matt Berninger was in good spirits. He air guitared through their hits, moon walked, and joked with the crowd. (We needed the humor in between all those serious songs.) Berninger introduced the last song of their set as “Lose Yourself” by Eminem, the guitarist played the opening riff to the song, “I’m angry, and I’m white, and I hate myself!” Berninger freestyled. They stopped and began the real closer, “Terrible Love,” a great way to end the night. Who knew The National could be this much fun live?
Review and Photos By: Josh Claros

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