The National promotes AIDS awareness and rocks out simultaneously

Brooklyn-based indie rockers the National have opened their big hearts once again.

Last month, they compiled and released Dark Was the Night, a thirty-two track double album (triple vinyl) to raise AIDS awareness. Proceeds benefit Red Hot, an international charity devoted to raising AIDS funds.

The National created a brand new exclusive track for the compilation, titled "So Far Around the Bend." Other artists billed include Andrew Bird, Bon Iver, Ben Gibbard, The Decemberists, Feist, Iron and Wine, My Morning Jacket, The New Pornographers, Spoon, and Yo La Tengo.

Sunday, May 3rd, many of the artists will be getting together at Radio City Music hall in NYC for an exclusive Dark was the Night show. Acts announced so far include Dave Sitek, Dirty Projectors, Feist, My Brightest Diamond, The National, Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings. Tickets are on sale now.

You can listen to a few tracks online at http://www.myspace.com/darkwasthenight

Post written by Marissa D'Orazio.