Kids Night At The Aragon With The National

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Photos: The NationalThe table in the lobby was partially blocked by the beer line at times, but that did not deter the good souls who came to the Aragon last night from dropping off a sleigh load of new toys and books for the kids at Children’s Memorial. Jessica and Julie were there from the hospital, spreading good cheer, looking at the positive side of two-way compliments (that was the best segueway I’ve heard XRT do in years!), and explaining how much the toys and books mean to the kids. One thing they often have to explain to the young patients is that getting cancer was not their fault. While the gifts piled high, the National turned in a compelling, droning, churning set backlit with hypnotic strobes and video. More toys and books are needed at the next Holiday Concerts for the Kids this Saturday at the Chicago Theatre with Tori Amos, Sunday at the Cadillac Palace with Ryan Adams and Tuesday with Wilco at the Riviera. Here are some toy tunes for inspiration:

“New Toy” by Lene Lovitch.
“Doll Parts” by Hole.
“One Tin Soldier” by Coven.
“Wind Up” by Jethro Tull.
“Teddy Bear” by Elvis Presley. (On this Day of Infamy, give it up for the King, who helped fund the Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor. It leaks oil to this day.)