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The National return to announce first live show since 2024
The National have announced their first live show since 2024, a one-off performance billed as "The National And Friends" as part of the AB100 festival in San Sebastián, Spain. The news follows a quiet period for the band, who have not toured since 2024 and last released an album in 2023, meaning fans have been awaiting signs of new activity from the group.
The show will take place at the Kursaal Donostia on 18 October, with support from a notable line-up including Kevin Morby, Ben Howard, Jon Hopkins, Mina Tindle, Ragnar Kjartansson, Arcade Fire's Richard Reed Parry and Anaïs Mitchell, among others. Tickets go on sale on 3 August at 10.30am BST. Since The National's last releases, 2023's "The First Two Pages Of Frankenstein" and "Laugh Track", frontman Matt Berninger has put out a solo album, "Get Sunk", while guitarist Aaron Dessner has continued producing for artists including Mumford & Sons, Gracie Abrams, Florence + The Machine and Brandi Carlile.
In short
- The National to play first live show since 2024 in San Sebastián
- One-off "The National And Friends" gig set for 18 October
- Tickets go on sale 3 August; big-name support line-up confirmed
Explained simply
The National are an American rock band who have built a devoted following through their distinctive sound and introspective songwriting. They have maintained a significant presence in alternative music and have developed both a committed fanbase and critical respect.
The group released their last album in 2023 and have not toured since 2024, meaning there has been a relatively quiet period for the band. This absence has made any signs of new activity particularly significant for their fans, who have been awaiting updates about the group's plans.
During this quieter time, The National's members have not been entirely inactive. Frontman Matt Berninger released a solo album and guitarist Aaron Dessner has continued his work as a producer for various artists, suggesting that whilst the band itself has been on pause, its members have maintained creative lives.