The Drums: It’s Never Too Late For Summertime!

This might not be new news to you but The Brooklyn/ Florida based band, The Drums are great. I realize I am almost an entire year late but it is never too late to enjoy the simple, frank, sunny sounds of The Drums.

The summer of 2009 was one filled with great music. But most of the sunny beach sounds were coming from lo-fi, chill wave, hazy bands. The Drums are far from falling into that category. Yes, they are indie like all the other summery bands of 2009 but they are successful not for their cryptic lyrics, or overly synthesized tracks but for their minimalistic nature.

Whistling, clapping, drums, guitar, and yes, some synth are the genetic make up for the infectiously catchy tunes. It is impossible to dislike these songs. You don’t have to think about the deeper meaning of the lyrics, they are what they say they are. You don’t have to decipher the melody, it’s right in front of your face, and you don’t have to wonder what the foreign sounds are, basic instruments are their tools, no spoons here. Even the most cynical, philosophical of us need a sugary, sunny break and The Drums provides us with a super fun one.

The Drums’ members are Jonathan Pierce, Jacob Graham, Adam Kessler and Connor Hanwick. Together these dudes make songs that bring the sun, speak to the beach, and remind you of young love. “Saddest Summer” despite the unhappy lyrics disperses a cheerful and poppy melody. I can’t help but jump and bop my head from side to side while listening. With the exception of “Down By the Water” all seven songs on the EP Summertime! have prime head bop-ability. “Down By the Water” offers a softer, sweeter sandy, sunscreen-lathered ballad.

Summertime! was released last year but the sound it brings is timeless. The beach, sun and kissing will always be around and so will the pleasure I get from listening to this album. Although the songs are best when set to warm temps and water, they can be enjoyed in blizzards as well. So, even if it’s old news to you dig up your The Drums EP and give it a listen.

The Whole Truth And Nothing But The Truth: Surfer Blood Saves The Day.

I, as a dedicated and honest journalist (okay, okay blogger), feel as though I should uncover the truth behind the nasty, rotten, smelly rumors that other, less honest and dedicated music bloggers have been spreading. I feel as though I am responsible for the information that is being given to my readers. It must be truthful! So, I am here to put you at ease.

It is NOT the end of the barely evolved, beachy, sunny, fun-times, indie rock genre that has currently taken over the industry. I am thinking of Girls, Cymbals Eat Guitars, Maps and Atlases, Micachu and The Shapes. I have read countless posts saying goodbye to this fist pumping music, that the genre is on its way out and I scream it aint so.

My proof? Surfer Blood’s Astro Coast. This album will keep the indie beach party alive! Although Surfer Blood is not a seasoned band, their music is wise. The tracks on Astro Coast are not necessarily intricate and complex but have a supremely enjoyable simplicity to them; I think there is something to be said for the smart, undemanding chords of the guitar on Astro Coast as well as the dominant hooks. They make it so easy to tap your feet and sing along to. And that is what music is all about in the end.

This is not to say that their music is not intentional. It is. The Florida based, Surfer Blood has the ability to shove this genre of music forward for another long while. Their music is not overly poppy, and conveys thoughtful composition, a perfect balance.

The third track on the album, “Take It Easy” with its simple lyrics, steady beat and African rhythms reminds me of a grittier, cooler Vampire Weekend. “Twin Peaks”, one of my favorite tracks on the album evokes late 90’s catchy rock but has its own contemporary, indie flare with distorted voices, horns and cowbells. And don’t forget their hit single, “Swim”, an epic, indie classic. Every college kid I know was playing this song in their dorm rooms while jumping and thinking about their future.  Okay, you caught me. I don’t actually know any college kids but I am sure this is accurate regardless.

And being accurate and trustworthy is what we here at Hipsters Eat For Free are all about. So, take my word, and don’t preemptively say farewell to the catchy, lo-fi, indie fun-rock just yet. Surfer Blood is here to save the day!