Author: Yasmin Ettobi
It’s a rarity to see an equal amount of teenagers and 30 year olds at any type of show, but this was undoubtedly the case at The Drums’ Seattle show on August 8th. I took a second to think about why this was the case, then remembered that their debut album came out almost a decade ago. It dawned on me how impressive it was, being able to maintain old fans while gaining new ones continuously through one’s career.
From looking at the discography of The Drums’ sole member and lead singer Jonny Pierce, the vulnerability and emotiveness that each album possesses is what keeps them consistent, executed in a manner unlike any other band I’ve seen. For the most part, The Drums’ music holds a dark, nervous energy, oftentimes dealing with themes of the ups and downs of life and love.
Listening to the songs is one thing, but hearing them live is an experience unlike anything else. Pierce isn’t afraid to get up close and personal with his fans both physically and emotionally, from dancing on the very edge of the stage the entire night to giving insights about the meaning of select songs.
A highlight of the night came after “Book of Stories,” where Pierce was obviously touched at the crowd belting the lyrics of the chorus,
“I thought my life would get easier / instead it’s getting darker, instead it’s getting colder/ without you.”
“It’s incredible how a song you wrote 10 years ago can still resonate so well in your life,” he stated with a smile over thunderous applause.
Hearing old songs like “Let’s Go Surfing” and “Money” was a complete blast, but hearing songs from Brutalism, The Drums’ latest album come to life onstage was one of the most exciting parts of the night. With a distinctly bright and more pop oriented sound than much of Pierce’s previously released work, tracks like “Body Chemistry” and “626 Bedford Avenue” sounded as glimmery and smooth live as I hoped for.
To put it simply, The Drums age like fine wine. Ten years into their career, and their fanbase is still thriving, eager to hear new music and excited to dance.
YASMIN ETTOBI | when the drums said “I want to buy you something, but I don’t have any money,” I FELT THAT | KXSU Head Music Reporter