The War On Drugs’ ethereal sound is among the most distinctive in modern indie/alternative music, built around Adam Granduciel’s haunting vocals and distinctive guitar tones, buoyed by constant experimentation. Lost In The Dream and A Deeper Understanding are transformative records that define their unique style. The Philadelphia natives have consistently proven themselves as one of the most impressive groups today.
Having played massive festivals like Glastonbury, the Royal Albert Hall’s more intimate setting was a surprising yet perfect choice for their luscious soundscape. The opening night was memorable, featuring tracks from across their five albums.
The Clientele was an inspired choice for an opening act, delivering a steady 45-minute set featuring tracks from their latest album, I Am Not There Anymore. Their soothing performance set the perfect tone for The War On Drugs’ two-hour set.
From the opener ‘Eyes to The Wind,’ it was clear that the band was operating at peak performance. Adam Granduciel’s vocals were as impressive live as on their recordings. The intimate venue allowed for a blend of slower tracks and rousing numbers that had the audience fully engaged, creating a shared experience difficult to achieve in larger arenas or festivals.
The music was complemented by stunning visuals that enhanced the ambiance, with blues and purples and thick smoke adding a moody atmosphere. ‘Harmonia’s Dream’ featured a captivating, if slightly lengthy, light show that elevated the already gorgeous music.
The band rarely paused, with the longest breaks occurring when Granduciel switched guitars. The two hours flew by as they delivered track after track, creating a set that felt like a victory lap. The performance was a belated celebration of 2021’s I Don’t Live Here Anymore, which, along with 2017’s A Deeper Understanding, formed the core of the set.
Many tracks felt elevated in the live setting, with epic renditions of ‘Pain,’ ‘Strangest Thing,’ and ‘Up All Night.’ The combination of visuals and musicianship was truly incredible. ‘Red Eyes,’ one of three tracks from Lost In The Dream, received a fiercely energetic response from the crowd, showcasing their deep connection with the band’s work.
Their cover of Tom Petty’s ‘Love is A Long Road’ tapped into a harder rock side, performed with gusto. ‘Under The Pressure,’ a fan favorite, was truly anthemic live, with an extended instrumental section that elevated the track to new heights. It was a standout moment in a night full of beauty and radiance.
While it would have been nice to hear more from Lost In The Dream on its 10th anniversary, this was a minor quibble in an otherwise exceptional show. Despite the lack of new material, the crowd’s spirit remained undampened. Even the torrential rain post-gig couldn’t dent the euphoric atmosphere.
Ultimately, this performance was a perfect showcase for The War On Drugs, especially in a live setting. Over 16 tracks, there wasn’t a misstep, delivering a masterclass in live music. The band demonstrated why they are regarded as an outstanding live act, further solidifying their reputation and the strength of their discography.
Related Stories
- Dua Lipa at Glastonbury review | Unradical pop presses play on Glastonbury weekend
★★★☆☆
Dua Lipa brought her pop potency to the hallowed Pyramid Stage, to commence the headline acts at Glastonbury this year. It was momentary pop extravagance but won’t go down in the history books of this incomparable musical moment. - Coldplay at Glastonbury Review | Poster boys for the Pyramid Stage spark a Glasto love-in
★★★★☆
Coldplay’s performance at Glastonbury 2024 was a highlight of the festival, with their energetic set and crowd-pleasing hits making for an unforgettable night. The band continues to solidify their status as festival favourites. - Roskilde Festival 2023 review | Blur, Lizzo, Kendrick Lamar – what more could you want?
It’s hard to think of a festival with a better line-up. Brimming with unique music, immersive art, and a dedication to sustainability and creativity, it’s a utopian adventure waiting to be explored. - Normski: ‘Being Black has been my meal ticket in life’
Explore the incredible life and career of Normski, whose photography captured iconic moments in hip-hop history. From photographing Public Enemy to documenting the UK’s cultural scene, Normski’s lens has seen it all. - Miles Kane: ‘Sometimes you write an album and your head changes – but this is a proper stamp of where I’m at now’
In this revealing interview, Miles Kane discusses his latest album One Man Band. He opens up about his personal struggles, the introspective themes in his music, and his journey from the highs of LA to a grounded life in the UK.
Keep up to date with the best in UK music by following us on Instagram: @whynowworld and on Twitter/X: @whynowworld