What makes Alligator by The National notable?

'Alligator' was pivotal for The National, receiving widespread critical acclaim and establishing them as a prominent band in the indie music landscape. It reached number 20 on the Billboard 200 chart and is often cited as a foundational album influencing subsequent generations of indie musicians. By the time 'Alligator' was released in 2005, The National had already established themselves with their self-titled debut album in 2001. This record marked a significant turning point, showcasing their refined sound and songwriting depth, leading to increased recognition in the indie rock scene.

Who is Alligator for?

Alligator works well if you're into steady mid-tempo introspection, reflective moments for solitude and brooding soundscape for contemplation.

How many songs are on Alligator?

Alligator has 13 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Alligator

The National · 2005

48 min · 13 tracks · indie rock

A brooding mix of atmospheric indie rock and poignant lyrics that explore love, loss, and existential dread.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Secret Meeting — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the themes of isolation and longing.
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Mr. November — With its driving rhythm and desperate energy, this track becomes an anthem of urgency and raw emotion, showcasing Matt Berninger's distinctive vocal delivery.
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Abel — The song's juxtaposition of vulnerability and assertiveness highlights the internal struggles depicted throughout the album, making it a standout moment.
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Daughters of the Soho Riots — This track captures a sense of nostalgia and reflection, using vivid imagery to convey complex emotions tied to urban life and relationships.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album's atmospheric sound and lyrical depth create a compelling experience, marking a key moment in The National's evolution.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow build in 'Secret Meeting', establishing a moody atmosphere that persists throughout.
Tracks often feature layered instrumentation, with guitars and strings weaving in and out of the vocal lines.
Several songs, like 'Abel' and 'Mr. November', shift from introspective verses to more explosive choruses, creating dynamic contrasts.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo introspection
reflective moments for solitude
brooding soundscape for contemplation
narrative flow through tracks

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party vibes
prefer short standalone songs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — 'Alligator' established The National's reputation and garnered critical acclaim.
Career context: By the time 'Alligator' was released in 2005, The National had already established themselves with their self-titled debut album in 2001. This record marked a significant turning point, showcasing their refined sound and songwriting depth, leading to increased recognition in the indie rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Interpol· The War on Drugs· Bon Iver