LABEL: Atlantic
VINYL RELEASE DATE: 8/25/2017
ORIGINAL RELEASE DATE: 2017
VARIANT: Black Vinyl 2LP

For much of the three and a half year period since the release of Lost In The Dream, The War on Drugs’ frontman, 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.

Album Info Hide Show Artist: The War On Drugs Album: A Deeper Understanding Released: USA & Canada, 25 Aug 2017 Tracklist: A1 Up All Night 6:24 A2 Pain 5:31 A3 Holding On 5:51 B1 Strangest Thing 6:41 B2 Knocked Down 4:00 B3 Nothing To Find 6:10 C1 Thinking Of A Place 11:10 C2 In Chains 7:21 D1 Clean Living 6:28 D2 You Don’t Have To Go 6:43 Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store We are a small independent record store located at 211 High St, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir) We buy and sell new and used vinyl records – if you have a collection you’d like to sell please click here . We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post. Free Shipping for orders $150 and over. You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout. We also ship internationally – prices vary depending on weight and location. We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records. In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times. If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately. We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn’t arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record. If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store. You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at [email protected] Happy Listening! Description Hide Show Released on August 25, 2017, “A Deeper Understanding” by The War on Drugs is an album that has resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, solidifying the band’s place in the modern rock landscape. This album is a follow-up to their critically acclaimed 2014 release, “Lost in the Dream,” and it showcases the band’s evolution while maintaining the signature sound that fans have come to love. From the very first notes of the opening track, “Up All Night,” listeners are enveloped in a lush soundscape that combines elements of rock, Americana, and synth-pop. Adam Granduciel, the band’s frontman and primary songwriter, has a knack for crafting expansive, atmospheric music that feels both intimate and grand. The production on this album is particularly noteworthy, with Granduciel collaborating with longtime producer Shawn Everett to create a rich, layered sound that invites repeated listens. The album’s sonic depth is complemented by its lyrical themes, which explore feelings of longing, introspection, and the search for connection in a chaotic world. Standout tracks like “Pain” and “Strangest Thing” exemplify the band’s ability to blend catchy melodies with poignant lyrics. “Pain” features a driving rhythm and an infectious chorus that captures the essence of emotional struggle, while “Strangest Thing” offers a more reflective tone, with its haunting guitar lines and contemplative lyrics. The album’s lead single, “Holding On,” is another highlight, showcasing the band’s ability to create anthemic rock songs that resonate on a personal level. The song’s themes of perseverance and hope are universal, making it a favorite among fans. Critically, “A Deeper Understanding” has received widespread acclaim. Major publications like Pitchfork and Rolling Stone praised the album for its ambitious sound and emotional depth. Pitchfork awarded it a score of 8.8, calling it “a masterclass in the art of rock music,” while Rolling Stone highlighted its “sweeping melodies and intricate arrangements.” The album was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Album, further cementing its status as a significant release in 2017. One of the most interesting aspects of the album is the personal journey that Granduciel undertook during its creation. He spent years working on the songs, often recording in his home studio, which allowed him to experiment with different sounds and ideas. In interviews, he has mentioned how the process was both liberating and challenging, as he navigated his own personal struggles while trying to create something meaningful. This authenticity shines through in the music, making it relatable to anyone who has faced their own battles. The cultural significance of “A Deeper Understanding” cannot be understated. In a time when many listeners were seeking solace in music, The War on Drugs provided a soundtrack that felt both timely and timeless. The album’s exploration of themes like isolation and the quest for understanding resonated with a generation grappling with the complexities of modern life. It became a staple for road trips and late-night listening sessions, offering a sense of comfort and companionship through its expansive sound. In conclusion, “A Deeper Understanding” is more than just an album; it’s an experience that invites listeners to reflect on their own lives while getting lost in its beautiful melodies and intricate arrangements. The War on Drugs has crafted a work that stands out in their discography and in the broader music landscape. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this album is a must-listen, and its sure to leave a lasting impression. Product Reviews Hide Show Write a Review