Based in Brooklyn, The National formed in 1999 and completed their fourth full-length album "Boxer" in 2007. The band consists of lead singer Matt Berninger and two sets of brothers: Aaron and Bryce Dessner and Bryan and Scott Devendorf. Their self-titled first album was released in 2001, which was followed by "Sad Songs for Dirty Lovers" in 2004. However, it was third album "Alligator" brought the band to public attention, leading to a headline tour and high critical acclaim from American journalists. They continued their good form by releasing "The Boxer" in 2007, which was voted number one album of the year by Paste Magazine. They supported REM on their 2008 tour and headlined The John Peel Stage on the final day of 2008's Glastonbury Festival.