Philly rockers The Wonder Years began their 2018 with a trickle of cryptic hints that eventually led to the announcement for their 6th studio album, Sister Cities, and a corresponding headlining tour. Following the release of the 11-track album in April, the band hit the road with Tigers Jaw, Tiny Moving Parts and Worriers.

It was also a great year for Campbell's inventive solo project, Aaron West and the Roaring Twenties. In August, the musician made a call out on twitter, asking for fan assistance for "low-key, acoustic house shows"... which turned out to be a beneficial testing ground for new songs, as well as one of the highlights of his entire year.

Please enjoy the first in our 2018 end-of-year series, where we ask some of our fave artists about the best shows they played, best shows they witnessed as a fan and what they've got going on for 2019.

First up, Dan Campbell:

What was your favorite show that YOU played this year?

I have two favorites! I hope that’s ok. For The Wonder Years it was Riot Fest. It was a career affirming moment to get that set time, the sunset slot, right in front of the ferris wheel. It felt like the festival put a lot of trust in us to play then and I really wanted to deliver a great show. Lucky for us we had an amazing crowd, maybe the biggest of our whole career so all we had to do was go out and match their energy. I have a memory burned in my brain forever now of us doing "Flowers Where Your Face Should Be" just as the sun hit the horizon with the Ferris wheel lit up in the background and the whole crowd holding up thousands of lights. 

For Aaron West it was the six house shows I did, which I know is cheating because it’s a whole tour, but it was so much fun. My wife and manager came with me, we did it in my Prius and just showed up to people's houses, hung out, got to try new songs in controlled, intimate environment and most importantly, got to hang out and talk with everyone who came. I don’t always gets the opportunity to safely and fairly hang out with an entire crowd anymore so it was a real blast for me to just get to talk to people and shake their hands and thank them for supporting what I do. 

What was your favorite show that you SAW this year?

The Mountain Goats at Ardmore Music Hall. Every time seeing them is a new experience because of the width of their catalog. You’re always going to hear songs you’ve never seen live before. This time, it was "Black Pear Tree" which was such an amazing moment. 

What do you have planned for 2019?

First thing on the calendar is a TWY European tour including our first ever stop in Iceland. In March, we’re having a baby so that’s pretty much the only thing I think about anymore. I’m also working on a new Aaron West record that should be out late spring if all goes to plan! 

Get complete tour dates + new music by visiting The Wonder Years official site.