The National create darkly serious, literate and lush indie rock that reached critical mass with the group’s fourth album, 2007’s Boxer, which reached Number Five on Billboard’s Top Independent Albums chart.

Formed in Brooklyn, New York, the band is composed of Ohio friends Matt Berninger, whose brooding baritone is reminiscent of musical precursors like the late Joy Division singer Ian Curtis; guitarist Scott Devendorf and his drummer brother Bryan; bassist Aaron Dessner and his guitarist brother Bryce.

Teens should know about this amazing band because they offer indepth, meaningful lyrics accompanied by a beautiful and mesmerizing instrumental backing track. In general, the National is a fantastic band that deserves all the recognition it can get.