Upon first listen, The National do not feel like a large-sounding band, but on their fourth and most accomplished album, they defy that notion amazingly through restraint and refinement.

This is one of the best grower albums of the year, one that reveals itself a little bit more with every listen. I’ve listened to it so many times that the weight and repetition of “Start a War” is almost overwhelming.

With a propulsive but never bombastic rhythm section, intricately arranged guitars, horns and strings and singer Matt Berninger’s distinctive baritone croon, Boxer became a staple for warm, late-night drives.