I have had a rough time on my way to write this feature. Perhaps it is that the album reminds me too much of my own thoughts. It is sombre and sad. Heartfelt even when it is more relaxed. In this season of shifting temperatures and new things optimism seems ideal. Yet this album hangs on to me closely. I confess I hadn't listened to The National very closely before this. A song on the radio here or in a playlist there. I was captured by the devestating track "Your Mind is Not Your Friend" one day. That track combined with the title of this album (Which genuinely made me get my copy of Frankenstein off my shelf) refuse to let go of my head. When I listen I feel like I should be able to move past these feelings. The sentiments found here. But, I find they are not so easily discarded. Perhaps that is where this lives. Where you aren't sure you want to leave. It is feelings you are still trying to feel. So let us explore this place of music.

I would profile this album as subtle in emotion and forward with words. The music itself is stripped back. A little guitar. A carrying piano track. Drums to keep you in time. But, it puts the words out front. "Once Upon A Poolside" sets the tone. It's nostalgiac and sad; looking forward and back at the same time. The tension of the piano drags me through the song mercilessly. I need resolution, but the song refuses to offer it. "This Isn't Helping" is about being in that place where helping is just hurting. It should help. It should be kindness, but not in that time or place. The amount of subtle rhythm and melody that underlies this track exemplifies that less can be more in these emotional songs. "Tropic Morning News" pulls us into a higher tempo and uplifts in some ways. It brings a kind of dichotomy of upbeat and readiness that, like in a day, can be thrown all askew by the thoughts and feelings that come along. It's a welcome shift at this space of the album. "The Alcott" is a devestating and gorgeous piece. The contrast of Taylor Swift's voice takes this ballad to the next level. The encounter in the story is mixed. But, the power of the emotions both the music and lyrics invoke is incredible. After the build of this album this song can bring you to an emotional climax of this story. The tempo steps up for "Grease in Your Hair" and "Ice Machines" (Both fantastic tracks) and then settles into "Your Mind is Not Your Friend." Music aside, this is a sentiment and experience that many may experience. With the musical motion considered this track is incredible. It leaves space for the emotions to breath and saturate. "Send For Me" caps off the album in an intimate way. It's the open invite to a person that no matter where you are there is a desire to be there too. 

Overall this is an emotional and rich album. Musically I don't see much new, but an absolute mastery of what is used. The stories and melodies haul you through each song while the instrumentals wash over you. This album challenged me. Not because I didn't like it, but because it felt like so much. Maybe it will feel like too much for you to handle too. Maybe it will find you in the place you don't want to be, but also don't want to leave. Take your time. Feel everything.