03 October 2023

“We’re the heirs to the glimmering world” – The National live at Alexandra Palace recap

By Clara Michel

On 26 and 27 September, The National graced our stage for two unforgettable nights.

Over the course of these two evenings, the indie rock stalwarts left all in awe of their musical prowess, impressive back catalogue, and warm energy. They treated their fans to an astonishing total of 58 songs without any repeats. Plus, illustrator Chris Riddell sketched song-inspired drawings live during the set.

Relive the magic, emotion and sheer brilliance of the sonic and visual tapestry woven by The National at Ally Pally. Scroll down for pictures, the full setlist and audience reactions.

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All photos © Patrick Gunning for Alexandra Palace

★★★★★ “A career-spanning triumph littered with deep cuts.” – Rolling Stone

★★★★★ “Only The National have the consistency of catalogue and the sheer musicianship to deliver such a marathon showcase of pure class. They are one of this century’s finest. Long may they reign.” – NME

★★★★ “They closed, exhausted and to adulation, with About Today. They’ve been at the top of their game for well over a decade, and the sad dads still want more. Even 150 minutes isn’t enough.” – Evening Standard

★★★★ “No one does stylish misery better.” – The Times

Met @Mattberninger from @TheNational in the bowels of @Yourallypally to talk about their two new albums, fighting the “paralysis” or depression, the future of the band and his new sitcom, for @NME: https://t.co/wVZ9wDBu7T pic.twitter.com/Dztesox1oQ

— AndrewTrendell (@AndrewTrendell) September 30, 2023

Two amazing nights @Yourallypally seeing @TheNational. The energy! Totally different sets each night, completely rammed. Amazing experience for any fan!

— Shoshana Wilson (@shanimalay) September 28, 2023

The magnificent @TheNational at @Yourallypally with @chrisriddell50 sketching live. Can it get much better than that? #thenational #allypally pic.twitter.com/uQEROKmlJo

— Rachael BC (@RachaelLBC) September 28, 2023

Went to see @TheNational at @Yourallypally tonight – great night and absolute great performance! pic.twitter.com/sMofDIYApn

— Ian Parbery (@I_Parbs) September 27, 2023

@TheNational night 2 @Yourallypally and it could be 2003 in Brick Lane! You represent so much

— Shoshana Wilson (@shanimalay) September 28, 2023

Last night, I saw The National at @Yourallypally. Woke up this morning, and I still feel as light as a feather. They were absolutely sublime. ❤️❤️

— Danté Banks (@Dante_Banks) September 28, 2023

the audience choir bit of the last night’s #thenational concert was my best concert moment ever. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/l9CpZFrfam

— dilan alma (@mypaperboat) September 27, 2023

I will never tire of watching @TheNational doing their thing
Amazing night at @Yourallypally pic.twitter.com/54JOmuaIUp

— Dan Williams (@DanInBaldock) September 27, 2023

It’s ⁦@TheNational⁩ in stereo at the ⁦@Yourallypally⁩ pic.twitter.com/jmvQxYV9Tj

— Andrew MacDougall (@AGMacDougall) September 26, 2023

@TheNational were on fire tonight at Alexandra Palace. Matt on absolutely top form and the Dessners providing incredible guitar pyrotechnics @Yourallypally pic.twitter.com/K7ObR2i6f0

— Beatles For Kale (@Beatlesforkale) September 26, 2023

Amazing @TheNational gig tonight at @Yourallypally bit of a shock being anointed by @Mattberninger with his holy water during TSODITD

— Andy Watson (@acwatson) September 26, 2023

You must be somewhere in London
You must be loving your life in the rain@TheNational @Yourallypally pic.twitter.com/satjIPXCZY

— Alex Whittaker (@alexdwhittaker) September 27, 2023

#London, you beauty. Just lying there quietly opposite @Yourallypally waiting for @TheNational pic.twitter.com/tJGybpZ1KO

— Shaul David (@ShaulDavidUK) September 26, 2023