What makes Cherry Tree by The National notable?

Cherry Tree received positive reviews upon release, marking a significant step in The National's evolution towards becoming a prominent force in indie rock. The track 'All the Wine' became particularly notable for its emotional resonance, helping to establish the band's reputation for crafting poignant narratives that would influence subsequent artists in the genre. Released in January 2004, Cherry Tree is The National's second EP, following their self-titled debut from 2001. At this point, the band was beginning to carve out their distinctive sound, which would later culminate in their breakout album, Boxer, in 2007. This EP showcases their emerging lyrical depth and musical cohesion as they transitioned from relative obscurity to critical attention.

Who is Cherry Tree for?

Cherry Tree works well if you're into steady pacing with gradual development, melancholy melodies for introspective moments and for late-night solitude.

How many songs are on Cherry Tree?

Cherry Tree has 7 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

Cherry Tree

The National · 2004

28 min · 7 tracks · indie rock

A haunting blend of melancholy melodies and introspective lyrics, wrapped in a warm indie rock soundscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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All the Wine — This track features anthemic instrumentation paired with evocative lyrics about longing and regret, encapsulating the emotional core of the EP.
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Cherry Tree — The title track stands out for its delicate arrangement and vivid storytelling, reflecting the band's ability to weave personal narratives with universal themes.
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About Today — With its somber tone and reflective lyrics, this song showcases the band's skill in blending introspection with melodic beauty, leaving a lasting impact.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases solid songwriting and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the last two tracks introduce a live recording and a more subdued tempo.
Each song features layered instrumentation that builds gradually, often culminating in a rich, atmospheric sound.
Lyrically, the EP focuses on themes of longing and introspection, with many lines delivered in a conversational tone.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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 pacing with gradual development
melancholy melodies for introspective moments
for late-night solitude
haunting atmosphere for quiet reflection

Maybe skip if you

seeks upbeat party tracks
prefers instant gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked a significant step in their evolution towards wider recognition.
Career context: Released in January 2004, Cherry Tree is The National's second EP, following their self-titled debut from 2001. At this point, the band was beginning to carve out their distinctive sound, which would later culminate in their breakout album, Boxer, in 2007. This EP showcases their emerging lyrical depth and musical cohesion as they transitioned from relative obscurity to critical attention.
Stylistic neighbors: Interpol· The War on Drugs· Bon Iver