The National, Tropic Morning News | Track Review

Matt Berninger and The National turn doom-scrolling and connection issues into the superb record, “Tropic Morning News.”

“You wait around in a conversation / While I get in and start stumbling through it.” Interesting Matt Berninger.  Clearly, The National front man is on the struggle bus where connecting is concerned on “Tropic Morning News”, the five-minute-plus promo single from their ninth studio album, First Two Pages of Frankenstein (April 28, 2023).  The key lyric, “The tropic morning news was on” is derived from what Berninger describes as doom-scrolling.  In the press release, Berninger asserts, “It became a song about having a hard time expressing yourself, and trying to connect with someone when the noise of the world is drowning out any potential for conversation.” Given the noise, and being in a dark, depressive place, Berninger and company exceptionally execute “Tropic Morning News.”

The second verse sheds even more light on this dark place. “But it somehow got switched around /… My dumb, automatic chit-chat,” Berninger sings, adding, “It’s not what I meant to say at all / There’s no way you can attach me to that.” Notably, in the bridge, despite conversational shortcomings, and connection issues, he asserts, “You found the slush in my sentiment / You made it sound so intelligent /… I would like to move on and be through with it.” The chorus is the centerpiece, where Berninger opens up further about his dark state, admitting, “I was suffering more than I let on.” Despite the dark tilt of the lyrics, the music itself sounds brighter. Perhaps this is a representation of Berninger getting to a better place and the band’s ability to begin their latest chapter.  The backdrop is picturesque, blending rhythmic and more lush musical cues and ideas.

Final Thoughts

Once again, The National dress to impress – well – they impress through incredible musicianship! “Tropic Morning News” serves as a stupendous prelude to First Two Pages of Frankenstein.  Matt Berninger is true to self, with his awesome baritone.  Furthermore,  The backdrop is superb, while the theme and lyrics take the cake. Strong way to start off 2023.

The National • First Two Pages of Frankenstein • The National / 4AD • 4.28.23

[: Brent Faulkner/The Musical Hype; The National / 4AD; OpenClipart-Vectors, PIRO via Pixabay]