17 Best War on Drugs Songs: Top War on Drugs Tunes

Strap in as we delve into the melodious universe of The War on Drugs. We’ve curated a list of their 17 best tracks—crowning achievements of lyrical depth, mesmerizing soundscapes, and genre-bending brilliance. These songs are sure to elevate your playlists and music sessions!

Here are the best War on Drugs songs that you can check out:

List Of Best War on Drugs Songs

Best War on Drugs songs in a list format:

1. “Under The Pressure” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

Authored by Adam Granduciel, this nine-minute opener from “Lost in the Dream” album is a journey in itself. It’s a spellbinding blend of rock aesthetics with sprawling synths that emulates the feeling of moving without direction but with relentless momentum.

2. “Red Eyes” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

Again a masterpiece from Granduciel, “Red Eyes” is a euphoric track. Featured on the same album, this track is the quintessential War on Drugs song, encompassing their anthemic sound and emotive lyricism, which makes it one of their most beloved.

3. “An Ocean In Between the Waves” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

Penned by Granduciel, this song is a swirling, hypnotic sound maze from the album. With heartfelt lyrics and an addictive rhythm, it reflects the struggle of navigating through life’s tumultuous seas.

4. “Pain” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

“Pain” is a poignant, atmospheric track from their fourth studio album “A Deeper Understanding”. It’s a beautiful reflection of Granduciel’s introspective songwriting prowess, weaving the tale of life’s inherent pains and the hope of healing.

5. “Holding On” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

This upbeat, synthy track written by Granduciel is a standout from “A Deeper Understanding”. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to meld nostalgic sounds with modern arrangements.

6. “Strangest Thing” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

“Strangest Thing”, authored by Granduciel, is an introspective ballad from the same album. With its sprawling, dreamy soundscape and poignant lyrics, it’s a fan favorite that tugs at the heartstrings.

7. “Thinking of a Place” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

This 11-minute sonic voyage penned by Granduciel perfectly encapsulates the band’s immersive style. The song creates a nostalgic and emotional aura that resonates long after it ends.

8. “Baby Missiles” – (Slave Ambient, 2011)

From the album “Slave Ambient”, this energetic, Springsteen-esque song showcases the band’s early sound. Written by Granduciel, it’s a perfect mesh of heartland rock and psychedelic influences.

9. “Brothers” – (Slave Ambient, 2011)

This slow-burner from the same album, penned by Granduciel, slowly builds into an epic, melodic masterpiece. It encapsulates the band’s expertise in creating captivating soundscapes and poignant narratives.

10. “Burning” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

“Burning” is a foot-tapping, buoyant track from “Lost in the Dream”. Authored by Granduciel, it exhibits the band’s penchant for creating uplifting anthems despite the contemplative lyrics.

11. “Knocked Down” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

Authored by Granduciel, this slow, melancholic track from “A Deeper Understanding” is a beautiful ballad that showcases the band’s softer side, highlighting their versatility.

12. “Eyes To the Wind” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

This heartfelt, piano-driven track from “Lost in the Dream” is a beautiful showcase of Granduciel’s songwriting prowess. The track strikes a perfect balance between heartland rock and atmospheric psychedelia.

13. “In Chains” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

“In Chains”, from “A Deeper Understanding”, is a mesmerizing journey through a vast sonic landscape. Written by Granduciel, it’s a testament to The War on Drugs’ musical evolution.

14. “Black Water Falls” – (Slave Ambient, 2011)

This contemplative track from “Slave Ambient”, penned by Granduciel, displays a slower, more introspective side to the band’s sound. It’s a beautifully melancholic and immersive piece.

15. “Your Love Is Calling My Name” – (Slave Ambient, 2011)

Authored by Granduciel, this track from “Slave Ambient” showcases the band’s ability to seamlessly blend psychedelic influences with a rock sensibility. It’s an infectious track that remains a fan favorite.

16. “Comin’ Through” – (Slave Ambient, 2011)

From “Slave Ambient”, “Comin’ Through” is another Granduciel’s composition that embodies the band’s early sound. Its heartland rock influences and driving beat make it a standout track.

17. “Lost in the Dream” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

The title track from their third studio album, “Lost in the Dream” is a beautiful and poignant testament to Granduciel’s songwriting. It’s a masterful blend of melancholy and hope that resonates deeply with listeners.

Fun Facts: Best War on Drugs Tunes

1. “Under The Pressure” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

Did you know that the nearly 9-minute song “Under The Pressure” was considered too long for radio play? But despite its length, it became one of the band’s most popular songs, proving that listeners are up for longer musical journeys!

2. “Red Eyes” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

“Red Eyes” is renowned for its anthemic chorus and driving beat, but interestingly, the song’s working title was “Drop the Bomb”. Thankfully, they ended up changing the title!

3. “An Ocean In Between the Waves” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

While “An Ocean In Between the Waves” is a fan favorite today, Adam Granduciel once admitted in an interview that he initially didn’t think the song was “any good” and was surprised by how well it was received.

4. “Thinking of a Place” – (A Deeper Understanding, 2017)

“Thinking of a Place” was initially released as a 12″ single for Record Store Day before it was included in the album “A Deeper Understanding”. The epic 11-minute track was quite a bold move, and it paid off in spades.

5. “Burning” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

The uptempo beat of “Burning” has a fascinating origin. Granduciel composed the song using a drum machine before the band added live drums. This gave the song a unique rhythmic flavor that sets it apart.

6. “Lost in the Dream” – (Lost in the Dream, 2014)

As the title track of the album, “Lost in the Dream” wasn’t just a metaphor. Granduciel suffered from severe anxiety and paranoia during the making of the album. These emotions shaped the song, making it an incredibly personal piece of art.

There you have it, folks—a deep dive into the world of The War on Drugs. May these tracks continue to inspire, resonate, and provide the soundtrack to your life. Keep the music playing!

Thanks for reading.

TBone