Joe Walsh and Kurt Vile Join The War on Drugs for Epic Philly Residency

Experience the magic as Joe Walsh and Kurt Vile join The War on Drugs in Philadelphia for a memorable live residency packed with surprises and classic tunes.

A Residency to Remember at Johnny Brenda’s

If you ever wondered what it’s like to witness a rock ‘n’ roll dream team in action, The War on Drugs delivered just that during their annual “Drugcember to Remember” residency at Philadelphia’s iconic club Johnny Brenda’s last week. This intimate series of shows wasn’t just a feast for fans of the band but a celebration of the rich musical connections that run deep in the indie rock scene.

Throughout the residency, The War on Drugs welcomed a cavalcade of special guests that read like a who’s who of indie and classic rock royalty. Joe Walsh of Eagles fame, Craig Finn from The Hold Steady, Martin Courtney of Real Estate, and founding member Kurt Vile all graced the stage for various nights, turning each show into a unique, unforgettable experience.

The War on Drugs rocking out at Johnny Brenda's (photo: Shawn Brackbill)

Kurt Vile’s Nostalgic Return

One of the standout moments came on December 20th, when Kurt Vile joined frontman Adam Granduciel and the band for a walk down memory lane. They performed “Arms Like Boulders” from their 2008 debut album Wagonwheel Blues, a rare track since it’s the only studio record Vile contributed significantly to before branching out on his prolific solo career.

But Kurt didn’t stop there—he also added his touch to covers of Bill Fay’s haunting “Pictures of Adolf Again” and the atmospheric R.E.M. classic “Country Feedback.” It was a heartwarming reminder of Vile’s roots with the band and a treat for longtime fans who hadn’t seen this lineup on stage for about 15 years.

For those who missed it, Vile and Granduciel had a surprise reunion earlier that year in June, performing “Hunchback” at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles, sparking excitement for this Philly residency.

Joe Walsh’s Rock Legends Jam

The legendary Joe Walsh first appeared on December 19th and immediately set the crowd ablaze. He jammed on his solo hits “Rocky Mountain Way” and “In the City,” effortlessly blending his classic rock chops with The War on Drugs’ signature sound on “Under the Pressure,” which is arguably one of their defining anthems.

Walsh’s presence was so electrifying that he returned the next night to reprise the powerful trio of songs. After his first night, he took to Instagram to shout out The War on Drugs as “one of my favorite bands,” an endorsement that surely meant the world to Adam Granduciel and company.

More Special Guests Bring Their Own Flair

The residency also featured The Hold Steady’s Craig Finn, who joined the band on December 19th to perform his solo tracks “Bethany” and “Postcards,” alongside a stirring rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Sweetheart Like You.” Finn’s gritty storytelling mesh beautifully with the band’s expansive soundscapes, adding a compelling edge to the evening.

On the previous night, Martin Courtney from Real Estate lent his talents to covers of Gene Clark’s “From a Silver Phial” and Lou Reed’s “Satellite of Love,” bringing a touch of jangly indie charm to the mix.

Looking Ahead: The War on Drugs’ Next Chapter

Amid all this live magic, The War on Drugs are quietly crafting their next studio album following 2021’s critically acclaimed I Don’t Live Here Anymore. That record marked the final album under their Atlantic Records contract, closing a significant chapter for the band. Before that, their first three albums found a home with the indie label Secretly Canadian, helping them carve out their distinct sound and loyal fanbase.

Fans eagerly await what fresh sonic landscapes Adam Granduciel and his crew will explore next, especially after such a collaborative and celebratory residency.

“Joe Walsh called us one of his favorite bands on Instagram after jamming with us. That meant everything.” – Adam Granduciel (paraphrased)

Why This Residency Matters

The “Drugcember to Remember” residency wasn’t just a series of concerts; it was an intimate celebration of friendships, history, and the unifying power of music. Watching legends like Joe Walsh share the stage with The War on Drugs, alongside former bandmates and close collaborators, was a vivid reminder of how music can bridge generations and genres effortlessly.

If you’ve ever felt the thrill of a surprise guest appearing mid-set or the rush of hearing a favorite deep cut live, this Philly residency must have felt like a gift wrapped in nostalgia and excitement. It’s these moments that make live music so magical—when the past and present collide in a burst of sound and soul.

FAQ

• How long has Kurt Vile been away from The War on Drugs live performances?
  Vile hadn’t performed live with the band for around 15 years until the recent Philly residency.
• Which songs did Joe Walsh perform with The War on Drugs?
  Joe Walsh jammed on “Rocky Mountain Way,” “In the City,” and “Under the Pressure.”
• What was unique about the song “Arms Like Boulders” during the residency?
  It’s from the band’s debut album Wagonwheel Blues and the only studio album to which Kurt Vile significantly contributed.
• What record label was The War on Drugs signed to before Atlantic?
  Their first three albums were released through the Indiana-based indie label Secretly Canadian.
• Are The War on Drugs working on new music?
  Yes, they are currently working on the follow-up to their 2021 album I Don’t Live Here Anymore.

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