Critical darlings during the early 2010s, The Drums have always exuded an effortless sort of charisma. Their plaintive and irresistibly catchy brand of indie-pop, which grafted a west coast vibe onto a krautrock backbone, was a welcome reprieve from much of the overwrought, overly serious music of the time.
While they have never completely lost their playful nature, the group’s tone and direction has become increasingly contemplative over the years, largely in line with becoming less of a band and more of a solo endeavour for founding member Jonny Pierce.
Named simply ‘Jonny’, The Drums’ sixth album completes this transition and it serves as a striking insight into Pierce's past, shining a light on a childhood stalked by trauma as a result of being raised in a strict religious community.
Over 16 tracks Pierce visits fragments of his past, longing to connect with his former self, and provide reassurance that the future is worth holding out for. Peppered amid standout moments such as Isolette, with its dance inflected jangle pop, are shorter tracks of resounding clarity such as Protect Him Always.
It is here you get an overwhelming sense of the confusion and fear that marked Pierce's younger years. As he sings “I just want to protect him always,” it's unclear if he is talking to himself or someone who abused his trust, with both scenarios equally devastating.
Musically the influence of The Smiths and The Cure still contribute to The Drums’ sound, as does Pierce’s fondness for motorik drum machines. Guitars sparkle on Obvious as bass notes leap around like a gazelle outpacing a predator. Be Gentle and Green Grass are far more serene, though. They have a timeless feel and the slow guitar strums and gentle arpeggios allow Pierce to croon over the top, in what is not an unwelcome addition to their sound.
Darker and more introspective than anything that has come before, ‘Jonny’ finds Pierce offering up an unadulterated image of himself to the world. A brave and honest record, it not only confronts the past, but provides a sense of hope for what is still to come.
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