Jem Aswad Senior Music EditorThe ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and a blizzard that dropped nearly a foot of snow on New York certainly could have put a major damper on the War on Drugs’ biggest-ever concert in the five boroughs — but despite those obstacles, an impressive crowd witnessed the group’s debut at Madison Square Garden on Saturday night.Indeed, the Philadelphia band’s 18-song, 130-minute performance in many ways offered a refreshing snapshot of the state of arena rock circa 2022.
Aside from drummer Charlie Hall’s snazzy patterned shit and windblown hair and a tasteful light show, there was little, if any, flash.
Rather, the War on Drugs offered up tune after great melodic tune, majestic sonics and sturdy musicianship clearly rooted in the teachings of Dylan, Springsteen, Petty and Knopfler.
The group’s unabashed love of these forbearers is a big reason why its music connects, and why it is still finding new fans 15 years into its career.
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