Released: 26/02/21
The National’s second album, Sad Songs For Dirty Lovers (2003), marked a major step forward from their debut, blending warmth and emotional intensity. Critics praised it—Pitchfork called it a “gorgeous train wreck” matching Matt Berninger’s sharp lyrics with powerful hooks, while Uncut hailed it as “brave, desperate, beautiful music.”
Now remastered at Abbey Road Studios, the 2021 reissue preserves the original artwork and breathes new life into this key record, highlighting the early sound that helped establish The National as one of the most beloved alternative bands of their generation.