The War On Drugs
Jun 7, 2017

The War On Drugs will be releasing their fourth full-length album, “A Deeper Understanding,” on August 25th via Atlantic Records. This is their first collection since 2014’s universally acclaimed “Lost In The Dream,” and their debut album with Atlantic. Following the Record Store Day release of the 11-minute “Thinking Of A Place,” The War On Drugs present the album’s lead single, “Holding On.”
For much of the three and a half year period since the release of “Lost In The Dream,” The War On Drugs’ front-man, Adam Granduciel, led the charge for his Philadelphia-based sextet as he holed up in studios in New York and Los Angeles to write, record, edit, and tinker -- but, above all, to busy himself in work. Teaming up with engineer Shawn Everett (Alabama Shakes, Weezer), Granduciel challenged the notion of what it means to create a fully realized piece of music in today’s modern landscape. Calling on his bandmates – bassist Dave Hartley, keyboarding Robbie Bennett, drummer Charlie Hall and multi-instrumentalists Anthony LaMarca and Jon Natchez -- continuously throughout the process, the result is a “band record” in the noblest sense, featuring collaboration, coordination, and confidence at every turn. Through those years of relocation, the revisiting and reexamining of endless hours of recordings, unbridled exploration and exuberance, Granduciel’s gritty love of his craft succeeded in pushing the band to great heights.
Formed in 2005, The War On Drugs consists of Adam Granduciel (vocals, guitar), David Hartley (bass), Robbie Bennett (keyboards), Charlie Hall (drums), Jon Natchez (saxophone, keyboards) and Anthony LaMarca (guitar). Founded by close collaborators Granduciel and Kurt Vile, The War on Drugs released their debut studio album, “Wagonwheel Blues,” in 2008. Vile departed shortly after its release to focus on his solo career. The band's second studio album “Slave Ambient” was released in 2011 to favorable reviews and extensive touring. Written and recorded following extensive touring, “Lost In The Dream,” was released in 2014 to widespread critical acclaim and increased exposure. Previous collaborator Charlie Hall joined the band as its full-time drummer during the recording process, with saxophonist Jon Natchez and additional guitarist Anthony LaMarca accompanying the band for its world tour.
The War On Drugs will hit the road for two-plus months beginning mid-September.
(Photo Credit: Shawn Brackbill)