Beating the 'Drums' of the '80s

There’s a plethora of bands nowadays whose sounds hark back to the ’80s, but no band is closer to an imitation than The Drums.

The group muddles the line between influence and cover not only because their singer sounds exactly like Robert Smith, but also because the guitars, drums and keys all seem a little too familiar.  Take The Cure, New Order and Joy Divison, put them on a beach, and give them some Vampire Weekend CDs to create this self-titled album. Also, you should tell them to pick the most generic name they can think of.

Despite the lack of originality, the songs are fun, catchy and quick.  The most addictive song on the album, “Let’s Go Surfing,” runs just under three minutes and is packed full of highlights, including a whistling melody sure to stick with you, just like a dirty acronym for remembering the order of the planets.

Novelty collectors, ’80s lovers and reincarnates of Ian Curtis will enjoy The Drums. No one else, though.