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16. Lost in the Dream - The War on Drugs (2014)

Alternative Rock

Falling instantly in love with The War on Drugs through their 2014 masterpiece Lost in the Dream is “easy, like the arrival of a new day”. The album exudes a comforting familiarity as it channels a timeless Americana-infused energy that flows consistently throughout, humming along at a relaxing pace like an old Chevy down Route 66. The War on Drugs’ mastermind, Adam Granduciel truly outdid himself on the record, as he created a sprawling, dramatic and outrageously complex sound that feels humble, honest and overwhelmingly nostalgic.

With a voice that conjures vintage Dylan, Granduciel eloquently ponders universal questions of life, meaning and relationships. His poetry exudes an economy of words and feelings, consistently doing more with less, painting vivid images with regularity. On the somber introspection of “Suffering” he recalls “that feeling that you gave me, like a snowflake through the fire”, a gorgeous line delivered with understated passion. “It never gets too dark to find anybody at any time” he reassures on “An Ocean Between the Waves”. There’s ancient wisdom in these tracks, the kind that resonates without fail no matter who’s listening. 

Musically, the album undulates gently, patiently and with purpose between moments of quiet reflection and resounding, joyous freedom. Dependable drums march along in the background behind layer after layer of airy guitars. The wide open spaces of “Eyes to the Wind” are magnificent and nearly tear-inducing. Simultaneously desperate and abundantly full of hope, Lost in the Dream is the soundtrack to the 21st century America they don’t cover on the news, and an ode to the people and places that comprise it.

*image; cover art for the album Lost in the Dream by The War on Drugs