Read previous – First annual Drugcember To Remember at Union Transfer
Photos and words by Taylor Shields
Philly’s own The War On Drugs kick off their 3-night sold out run at Johnny Brenda’s this week (on 12/19, 12/20, and 12/21) with the return of their annual ‘A Drugcember to Remember’ series of holiday shows, which directly benefit The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia. The War On Drugs originally launched ‘A Drugcember to Remember’ in 2018, performing three shows across different venues – for this year’s, all 3 are at JB’s.
Longtime fans will remember when the band played JB’s opening night back in September 2006. After all these years, the venue still remains near and dear to them. Even now, with a Grammy for Best Rock Album (A Deeper Understanding) under their belt, as well as another nomination just this year for Best Rock Song (“Harmonia’s Dream”), the band still enjoys rocking out for their hometown fans in small club venues in the city where they got their start, and all for a good cause. Bandleader Adam Granduciel comments,
“There’s no better way to wrap up a long year on the road than with three shows at our favorite club, Johnny Brenda’s in Philadelphia. We are grateful that since 2018, with our fans’ help, our Drugcember to Remember shows have raised money for The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia. This year will be no different and we can’t wait to cram on that tiny Brenda’s stage, jam with some friends and have three more memorable nights in Philly. See y’all soon xo ag.”
After a 2-year pandemic hiatus, lucky ticket-holders are eager to see the return of ‘Drugcember’ with each night capped at 250 attendees. Past ‘Drugcember’ shows have featured support from comedian Tim Heidecker, another Philly area native. Rockin’ The ‘Burbs was lucky enough to attend the band’s rehearsal on Sunday night, where family and friends in attendance were treated to an intimate performance. Sunday night’s rehearsal promised a career-spanning setlist as well as some covers of songs from The Waterboys, John Hiatt, and Bob Seger. While Granduciel kept jokingly reminding the crowd “this is not a show”, The War on Drugs sounded as polished as ever.
In a city where public education is in dire need of funding, proceeds from these benefit shows are sure to make an impact. “We are incredibly grateful for The War On Drugs’ ongoing commitment to supporting Philadelphia’s public school children. The example they set and generosity they inspire is uplifting to students across our great city,” says Kathy Rubino, Vice President of Development for The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia. Beginning in January, additional fundraising will be happening via Julien’s Auctions. Among auction items will be a golden ticket good for a pair of tickets to any headlining The War on Drugs show for the next five years, signed memorabilia from Philly professional sports teams, and signed instruments from The War on Drugs and other musicians. For more information on The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia, visit www.thefundsdp.org.
Keep scrolling to see more photos from The War On Drugs’ Sunday night rehearsal.
