The National returned to Boston last Thursday for the first time since 2019 and played to a jam-packed room at Roadrunner. The evening began with the sweet vocals and indie-folk styling of Indigo Sparke, who debuted music from her upcoming album Hysteria. The National’s Aaron Dessner, who produced the LP, also joined Sparke on stage for a performance of the album’s eponymous track.

As the National took to the stage, front man Matt Berninger immediately enthralled the audience that had filled the venue. The band lavished the crowd with a two-hour set of music spanning seven different albums, and the performance also included several new songs such as “Weird Goodbyes” and “This Isn’t Helping.” Indigo Sparke returned to the stage to accompany a performance of “Rylan” as well. During it all Berninger was in his element, giving his all, playing to the cameras, and gracing the crowd with his presence a few times. There was a feeling of gratitude in the air, and it was clear that everyone was glad to be reunited for a great show.