The Drums - Portamento
The Drums have returned just a year after their debut with a follow-up that puts them a step above a lot of contemporary indie bands.
The surf-pop influences that provided an undertone to their debut EP Summertime! somehow add a level of sophistication on this catchy but mature second album.
Traditionally, the sophomore album is a tricky one for bands who rise to any kind of prominence with their debut, but The Drums should have no issues.
Portamento establishes that the band have staying power, with tracks like 'Days' being as haunting as their are catchy.
Rather than breaking from the indie formula, they've made it their own through excellent production and little touches that make this feel different.
Tracks like 'What You Were' carry a Stone Roses influence, with the backing vocals being reminiscent of the Beach Boys at times, whilst the brass is a very nice addition.
Fans of Hot Chip will probably lap up songs like electro-indie 'Hard To Lose', which provide a nice departure in mood from the rest of the record.
Still guitar-driven at its heart, Portamento is an album that showcases its influences and the roots of indie music without feeling like The Drums are pandering to their fans.
Tracks like 'Searching For Heaven' are a departure for the album, with big club influences coming through on the synth, without sounding forced.
Several of these tracks could become modern indie classics given half a chance, and The Drums have crafted a consistent second album that builds on, and surpasses, its predecessor.
Female First - Alistair McGeorge