The National is the debut studio album by American indie rock band the National, released on October 30, 2001, on Brassland Records. Recorded prior to guitarist Bryce Dessner's full arrival into the band, The National was produced by both Nick Lloyd and the band itself. Now-bassist Scott Devendorf performs both guitar and backing vocals on this album, with guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Aaron Dessner on bass and guitar duties, making this the only National album to be featured as a quartet.
The album features a more alt-country quality in comparison to future albums. Lyrics from "29 Years" would later be used in "Slow Show" from the band's 2007 album, Boxer.
The album features guest contributions from then forthcoming member Bryce Dessner, with his brother Aaron noting, "When we recorded [the album], my brother wasn't even in the band. We made the record before we ever played a show. We did it just to do it."
The album's front cover features drummer Bryan Devendorf in a swimming pool.
All songs are credited to the National. Actual songwriters adapted from Tidal.
All credits for The National adapted from the album's liner notes.