The National made waves with their 2007 LP, Boxer. It landed the Brooklyn based indie rock band on many critics year end list and earned them a spot touring with R.E.M. and Modest Mouse. The Virginia EP and its Vincent Moon produced companion film A Skin, A Night helped to preserve the lasting effect of Boxer. The EP collects various demos, live takes and covers that serve as a window into the creative process of the band. They successfully rework the Nebraska era Bruce Springsteen cut, “Mansion on the Hill,” and tackle Charlotte Martin’s “Without Permission” with similar aplomb. Fans are treated to demos of Boxer standouts “Tall Saint,” “Forever After Days” and “Rest of Years.” The live material and radio sessions do not disappoint, either.
- music label: Beggars Banquet 2012