The National @ O2 Academy, 26 Nov

Returning to the status of critical darlings without ever quite returning to the same well, The National have built a reputation of being one of the most solid rock bands in recent history.

With a distinct sound marrying Matt Berninger’s baritone over alternatingly atmospheric and sparse guitar work, as well as string and piano flourishes, the Brooklyn band are also no slouches when it comes to live performance.

While their style has mellowed slightly, most notably on this year’s High Violet, they still have a cache of high-octane highlights from previous albums to keep the crowd stirred and the eyes glazed in wonder. [Jason Morton]