Kurt Vile explains the title of his new album, “Philadelphia’s Been Good To Me”
Kurt Vile, the Lansdowne-born alt-rock artist, has always had a deep love for Philadelphia, and it is evident that the feeling is mutual. Since his debut album, Constant Hitmaker, Vile’s connection with the city has been evident. He posed for the cover of the album against a backdrop in Frankford and Norris, describing it as reminiscent of a Rauschenberg painting, highlighting the beauty he sees in such urban landscapes.
In 2012, a mural by Steve “ESPO” Powers that graces the cover of Vile’s Wakin On A Pretty Daze album has been a fixture in Northern Liberties, further solidifying his bond with the city. With his distinct appearance and enigmatic aura, Vile has become synonymous with Philadelphia’s indie rock scene. His music is intertwined with the fabric of the city, from lyrical references to local landmarks like Lincoln Drive and the Schuylkill River to visually striking imagery like wearing a crocodile mask in Wissahickon Valley Park on the cover of Watch My Moves.
Vile’s latest album, “Philadelphia’s Been Good To Me,” released in May, showcases his deepest hometown pride yet. The album features nods to various Philadelphia references, including local legends like Sun Ra. One of the album’s standout tracks, “Chance to Bleed,” even features the iconic Schoolly D in a music video filmed at Kung Fu Necktie. Vile’s playful jab at classic rock heroes in the song “You Don’t Know Cuz It’s My Life” adds a touch of humor and personal touch to the album.
Recording in his basement studio, affectionately named OKV (Overnight Kurt Vile), in his Mount Airy home, Vile’s connection to his roots is palpable. His encounter with saxophonist Marshall Allen from the Sun Ra Arkestra at the Silk City Diner further solidified his place in the city’s music history. As he mingled with iconic figures, Vile reflected on the significance of being proud of his city and the authenticity that shines through in his music, akin to his friend Mary Lattimore’s embrace of Philadelphia despite not being a native.
Vile’s view on classic rock legends like Bruce Springsteen and Neil Young, who have sung about Philadelphia, contrasts his own personal connection with the city. While Springsteen and Young’s compositions were for movie soundtracks, Vile’s references to Philadelphia are deeply rooted in his lived experiences and genuine admiration for his hometown. His respect for the works of these legends doesn’t overshadow his pride in representing Philadelphia with authenticity.
Among Vile’s peers in the music scene like Adam Granduciel of The War on Drugs, who, like Vile, found success outside their birthplaces, Vile’s loyalty to Philadelphia stands out. His friendship with fellow musicians who have also found success beyond the city’s borders highlights the unique bond Vile shares with Philadelphia – a place that continues to be a wellspring of inspiration and authenticity for his music.