Karla Rendon
Editorial Director
Brooklyn-based indie duo the Drums played a maximum-capacity show for 800 people at Amoeba’s in Hollywood on Tuesday in promotion of their new album, “Encyclopedia.”
The stylish, dark clothed fans welcomed the Drums with a roaring applause followed by a few excited whistles as the group stepped on the tiny stage and immediately played their 2011 song “Days.”
As frontman Jonny Pierce grooved along to the heavy bass with salsa-esque dance moves, fans sang and danced along to the song despite being separated between narrow aisles of CDs and vinyl.
Although “Encyclopedia” slightly differs from The Drums’ previous efforts, the group did not abandon their early material and opted to sing a tune from their 2010 self-titled album called “Best Friend.”
“This next song is about my dead friend,” Pierce said as fans inappropriately cheered for the song’s introduction.
Despite the song having depressing lyrics such as, “You were my best friend, but then you died / When I was 23 and you were 25,” the beat is misleading and upbeat contrast to the melancholy lyrics.
As Pierce sang of his deceased friend, percussionist Jacob Graham danced to the beat of his tambourine making the audience dance excitedly.
After expressing his gratitude for the audience’s support and acceptance, Pierce declared his admiration for Amoeba’s.
“As a musician, it’s amazing that places like this still exist,” he said into the microphone.
“We’re really honored and grateful that Amoeba’s has invited us to play here and we’re grateful that you all came out to see us,” he said.
The duo ended the show strong with their 2011 song “How it Ended,” a lively song about a breakup.
“Alright, this is our last song of the night. Thank you all for coming,” Pierce said as the familiar melody began followed by “awww’s” from fans who did not want the show to end.
As Pierce danced along to the fun beat and Graham calmly played his tambourine, fans enjoyed the final moments of witnessing the Drums perform.
As the performance came to an end and Pierce gave one final “thank you,” the audience had an uproar of satisfied applause, yells and whistles.
Unfortunately for fans, Amoeba’s employees rushed the show to end giving no chance for the audience to plea for an encore.
Instead, 200 lucky fans were given green tickets that allowed them the chance to participate in a meet and greet with Pierce and Graham as well as the opportunity to have one item signed by the duo.
In contrast to the Drums’ fun, laidback and casual attitude, Amoeba’s was strict with the show, making the show’s experience somewhat less than ideal.
Karla Rendon can be reached at karla.rendon@laverne.edu.
