The Drums, NE-HI
Hi-Fi – Indianapolis, IN – 8/5/17
Words and Photos by Megan Hilaire 

The Drums, an indie pop band from New York, played a packed show at the Hi-Fi in Indianapolis last Saturday. The band recently released a new album called “Abysmal Thoughts” this past June, though they played songs from their entire discography.

NE-HI, a Chicago based indie rock band, took the stage first, opening with “Stay Young,” which comes off their new record, “Offers,” that was released earlier this year. NE-HI is a highly energetic band and fun to watch. They have a very effortless basement rock band sound, with quick and upbeat riffs that got the crowd moving.

The Drums came on soon after and the crowd came ready to dance. Hearing their music live is perhaps the best way to experience it. Frontman Jonny Pierce brought a lot of energy to the stage, and infused every song they played with emotion. Their sound is dreamy and has surf rock undertones. They also offer a fresh take on the sound of new wave bands from the 80s.

The set-list seemed to dip into their entire discography. They dove back and played songs from their 2010 self-titled record, like “Best Friend,” and their ultimate feel-good summer jam, “Lets Go Surfing.” They also showed their 2011 record, “Portamento” some love and played “Days,” “Money,” and “Book of Revelation” to name a few. The end of the show seemed mostly focused on songs from “Abysmal Thoughts.” They played “Head of the Horse,” and “Rich Kids,” among others, and closed the show out on “Mirror,” which is the opening song from the new record.

NE-HI

The Drums