Matt Berninger of The National has officially released his brand new EP, Type It Up. The project serves as a compelling follow-up to his critically acclaimed second solo album, Get Sunk, which arrived last year.
The five-track collection brings together three original new songs: the titular track “Type It Up,” the introspective “Ask For Water,” and the previously released single “Martini Me Fatso.” These new offerings are rounded out by two distinct covers: New Order’s iconic “Blue Monday” and The Velvet Underground’s “Who Loves the Sun,” the latter of which features a guest appearance by Rosanne Cash.
Accompanying the release is a music video for “Ask For Water,” directed by Berninger’s frequent collaborator Chris Sgroi. Regarding the creative process behind the EP, Berninger noted that the material was born from the momentum of his recent tour. “These songs came out of the momentum and energy of the Get Sunk tour,” Berninger shared in a statement. “I was changing lyrics and forms night after night, and we were getting real-time feedback from audiences and social media comments.”
Berninger also offered insight into the evolution of the EP’s title track. Originally titled “Black Letter Font,” the song underwent a lyrical shift after fans misheard a line during live performances. “People were mishearing the lyric, ‘That would look good in a black letter font’ as ‘I would look good in a black leather thong,’ so I decided to swap the chorus,” he explained. “I’m more of a black linen suit guy.”
The release of Type It Up arrives as Berninger continues to reflect on his solo trajectory. Looking back at the creation of Get Sunk, he noted, “I think Get Sunk is the best thing I’ve done since Boxer.” However, with the new EP now available, fans are already finding reason to suggest he may have surpassed that benchmark.
For collectors, a vinyl edition of Type It Up is scheduled for release on December 4, which will include an exclusive sixth track: an acoustic rendition of “Martini Me Fatso” recorded live in Australia.
