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'Encyclopedia' By The Drums: Album Review

Samantha Romero |
October 4, 2014 | 12:08 p.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

"Encyclopedia," by The Drums (The Drums/Twitter)
"Encyclopedia," by The Drums (The Drums/Twitter)

With the release of their latest album “Encyclopedia,” the Brooklyn-based duo Jonny Pierce and Jacob Graham also known as “The Drums,” distinguish themselves from their earlier upbeat singles (such as “Money’” and “Let’s Go Surfing”) and create a unique sound to call their own. 

In an exclusive commentary shared on Spotify, Pierce commented on the lyrical and musical styling of the new record. Pierce divulged, “I remember Jacob called me and said, ‘Let’s make a record. I want it to sound like ‘The Sound of Music’, and I said I want our new album to sound like a garbage can.”

The artists then combined both styles, resulting in lighter elements such as synth arpeggios and synth pads as well as what Pierce describes as, “a guitar that sounds like a dying cow.”

In contrast to their prior album, “Portamento,” which was more of an escapist work, “Encylopedia,” encases a deeper meaning as the artists confront issues head on. For instance, “Let Me” is inspired by gay abuse that is occurring in Russia whereas “There Is Nothing Left” communicates the idea of accepting yourself for who you are. Undoubtably, both songs are in line with the recurring themes of truth found throughout the album.

Following the release of their new record, the indie-pop band launched their world tour that includes a performance in Los Angeles on Oct. 5 at the historic Mayan Theatre.

Definite songs to give a listen to are: “I Can’t Pretend,” “Kiss Me Again,” and “Wild Geese.” 

Contact Staff Reporter Samantha Romero here and follow her on Twitter here.



 

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