The Autumn Defense, the side project of Wilco’s John Stirratt and Pat Sansone, played Anthology on Feb. 3. Longtime Wilco/Uncle Tupelo bassist Stirratt and multi-instrumentalist Sansone, along with several touring members, took advantage of Anthology’s impeccable sound and atmosphere to put on a lighthearted, engaging performance.

When Sansone, who now hides his boyish features behind a Grizzly Adams beard, asked the small crowd if the sound at their next stop — Pappy and Harriet’s in Pioneertown, CA — was as good as Anthology’s, someone in the audience shouted, “Exact opposite!”

Everyone had a good chuckle, and this was basically the theme of the whole evening. Nobody has a bad time when members of Wilco are in town.

Photos: The Autumn Defense – February 3, 2011