The National have been making music together for nearly 20 years. Throughout that time, they've managed to keep evolving their sound, chasing after the kind of creativity that would push them out of their comfort zone.

On Friday, May 17, the band releases their eighth album, I Am Easy to Find. This time around, they've recruited more female singers and songwriters than they've ever worked with before. A short film to accompany the album, directed by Mike Mills and starring Oscar winner Alicia Vikander, will also soon be unveiled.

The National perform live in the q studio in Toronto, Ont. Band: Matt Berninger, Aaron Dessner, Bryce Dessner, Bryan Devendorf, Scott Devendorf, Pauline De Lassus, James McAlister, Katherine Stables, Benjamin Lanz. Strings: Yuki Numata Resnick, Rachel Pomedli, Laurence Schaufele, Valerie Li. (Vivian Rashotte/CBC)

The National dropped by the q studio to chat with guest host Angeline Tetteh-Wayoe and to perform some of their brand news songs.

Click 'listen' near the top of this page to hear the full conversation and performances.

— Produced by Vanessa Nigro