Phillyist Playlist: Pearl Jam at the Spectrum

Photo by Danny Clinch, via Pearl Jam Official Flickr

Hang on, baseball fans. This week, the city's spotlight belongs on the Spectrum, where it will shine for four nights on the men of Pearl Jam and the fans who kept the venue in business for over 55 years.

Pearl Jam has been rocking houses for nearly 20 years. With this year's Backspacer, PJ's ninth studio album, they're hitting the tour circuit pretty hard. Fortunately for all of us Philadelphians, the band's only east coast stop will be at our beloved Spectrum. What's more? PJ will be rocking the house right for four nights. Beyond that, you can hit up two shows and check out two different opening bands. Equally tenured bands Social Distortion and Bad Religion will open two shows apiece.

Rolling Stone describes Backspacer as a return to the band's "boyish spirit, with the shortest, tightest, punkiest tunes they've ever banged out." The band used Yield producer Brendan O'Brien this time around. As Vedder told Rolling Stone: "In the past, Brendan would say, 'It's a great song, but I think you should do it in a different key', and we'd say no. But now that we've heard Bruce [Springsteen] has listened to his suggestions, I think we will too."

So to honor the history of the Spectrum through the medium of the band, tousle your hair, dig around in the closet for those Doc Martens, and join us at the show.

Pearl Jam with special guests Social Distortion (10/27, 10/28) and Bad Religion (10/30, 10/31)
October 27, 28, 30, 31
8:00 p.m., all ages
Wachovia Spectrum, 3601 S. Broad St.
Tickets: $77