National
Sleep Well Beast
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

2017 2LP white vinyl in gatefold. "Sleep Well Beast" is the seventh studio album by American indie rock band The National, released on September 8, 2017, through 4AD. The album marked a pivotal moment in the band's discography, both in terms of its sonic evolution and collaborative approach. Recorded at guitarist Aaron Dessner's newly built Long Pond Studio in upstate New York, "Sleep Well Beast" incorporated more electronic textures and experimental structures than previous releases, while maintaining The National's signature brooding lyricism and intricate arrangements. The creative process was notably more democratic, with contributions from all members, as well as input from longtime collaborators such as producer Peter Katis and composer Nico Muhly.

Upon release, *Sleep Well Beast* was met with widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. It won the Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album in 2018, a first for the band, and debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200. Critics praised its blend of intimacy and innovation, with many noting how the album grappled with themes of aging, marital tension, and political anxiety, resonating deeply in the context of its time. Tracks like "The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness" and "Day I Die" became standouts, showcasing the band's ability to fuse vulnerability with dynamic instrumentation. As a whole, *Sleep Well Beast* is often seen as a testament to The National's enduring relevance and their willingness to push creative boundaries while staying true to their emotional core.