December 12, 2010

17. The Drums / The Drums


The Drums

In a year of exquisite and nuanced 1980's revivalism, The Drums self-titled debut is straightforward, late-decade, Anglo guitar-pop that pleases at almost every turn. The Drums limited sonic vocabulary is effervescent (rather than an impediment), as the Brooklyn-via-Florida band understands their influences and wears them on their big-hearted sleeves.

Lead singer Jonathan Pierce prances, struts, and sings with an overwhelming sense of romance and a deep longing for connecting to his musical forerunners. His lyrical hooks are simple by design, and they are the perfect compliment to Jacob Graham's spindly guitar work. The tinny drums bely the album's solid production, but that may also be an intentional retro vibe in addition to the handclaps, reverb, keyboards, and harmonies that permeate the band's singular sound. A strong, imminently listenable debut.

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