This week Philadelphia had the honor to play host to the debut of AJR’s The Maybe Man tour in support of their latest studio album of the same name. Brothers Adam, Jack, and Ryan’s ascension from busking in NYC to global acclaim is parallel to their relationship with the City of Brother Love. They first appeared at World Café Live in April of 2014 and now nearly ten years to the day their unified dream to bring their music to the masses on the biggest stages possible culminated Wednesday night at the Wells Fargo Center.
Their devoted fans packed the arena and waited in anticipation for what would be a well-intentioned arrangement of songs. The night’s performance included new music and fan favorites from the band’s extensive studio albums, EPs, and various singles. The show started with “Maybe Man,” “Sober Up,” and “Yes, I'm a Mess” accompanied by striking impressive visual effects. Even with all the glitz and glamour of their elaborate vision and storytelling, their musical brilliance presented the audience with a rich balance for the senses.
Being the first stop on tour does afford fans some added rewards and this show was no different. The night showcased the live debut of “I Won't / Birthday Party,” “God Is Really Real” and all three parts of “Turning Out” performed in order. The urge to play spoilers on all the amazing aspects of the show is hard to control. With that said, the only clue to offer is do not shy away from the upper deck seats on this tour, you may find a welcome surprise.
Although this was the first stop of the tour if you missed your opportunity to see AJR live, and that is really the only way to fully appreciate their music, have no fear. The band returns to Philly on July 25th at the Wells Fargo Center and back-to-back nights at Madison Square Garden in NYC on July 26th and 27th!
Set List:
Maybe Man
Sober Up
Yes, I'm a Mess
I Won't / Birthday Party
The DJ Is Crying for Help
God Is Really Real
The Good Part
Bang!
Inertia
Touchy Feely Fool
Karma
Turning Out / Turning Out Pt. ii / Turning Out Pt. iii
World's Smallest Violin
Steve's Going to London
Burn the House Down
How We Made: Way Less Sad
Way Less Sad
Don't Throw Out My Legos
100 Bad Days
Encore:
2085
Weak
Next Stops on AJR’s Tour
APR 6, 2024, XL CENTER HARTFORD, CT
APR 7, 2024, CFG BANK ARENA BALTIMORE, MD
APR 9, 2024, PNC ARENA RALEIGH, NC
APR 10, 2024, SPECTRUM CENTER CHARLOTTE, NC
APR 12, 2024, GAINBRIDGE FIELDHOUSE INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Review and Photography by: Craig Eidell