Work Drugs and Vita and the Woolf bring holiday cheer to Boot and Saddle

Last Friday, seasonal cheer arrived at Boot & Saddle early in the form of Work Drugs’ annual “Christmas Spectacle” show. Their brand of electro rock was just right for a Friday night boogie in South Philly. Santa hats, Christmas songs old and new (including a few of their own concoctions) and a balanced mix of guitar, keyboards and harmonies were received with open arms.

And with a barrage of releases from 2014 to fill in the setlist, including Cayman Island Sessions, Volume II and Runaways, one was bound to be surprised by the set. Led by vocalists Thomas Crystal on guitar and Benjamin Louisiana on keyboards, Friday’s line-up was rounded out by bassist Mr. Kansas City and drummer Jonas O. Frequent guest vocalist Rachel K. Haines was a welcome addition as well. Work Drugs proved to be an early holiday delight.

To set the stage for the rhythms of Work Drugs, Vita and the Woolf only had to unleash the soulful voice of lead singer Jen Pague. Playing behind their 2014 debut Fang Song, Pague on keyboard, synths and bass player Bobby Cleveland and drummer Adam Shumski were stunning. This Philly-based band is certainly bound for musical glory.