Once a duo, but now the sole work of leading man Jonny Pierce, The Drums is heading back to El Paso to rock the stage with indie-pop angst on Dec. 10 at Tricky Falls.
This won’t be the band’s first appearance in town this year, as The Drums was here in March for a sell-out show at the Lowbrow Palace.
Fans can expect to hear music off the fourth studio album “Abysmal Thoughts,” which was released this summer and has been celebrated as a return to form for the New York-based project.
The last remaining founding member of the band, Pierce, wrote the album entirely on his own. Since the last album, “Encyclopedia,” was released in 2014, he has been through many trials in his personal life.
Aside from the departure of original member and keyboardist Jacob Graham, Pierce has been married, divorced and has found new love with boyfriend Keon Smith, who is featured on the cover of “Abysmal Thoughts.”
In the album, the 36-year-old sings about his losses and heartache, much of which he blames himself for. But he’s ready to be open and speak about it, which also makes this album like therapy for Pierce, where he comes to terms with his past.
Songs like “Heart Basel” and “Blood Under My Belt” explore those feelings of a failing relationship and admitting to his mistakes.
In an interview with The Up Coming earlier this month, Pierce referred to the new album as a rebirth of sorts. “This was a chance for me to really talk about real things that I’m going through, real thoughts that I have,” he said.
He also said that touring for this show has been the best time he’s had in nine years of performing.
“I was able to sort of bring that spirit along with me onto the stage and I can honestly say that I never held such a connection to the people who appreciate the music and buy the record,” Pierce said.
If exploring heartbreak and navigating through deep emotions while dancing and crying sounds like a good time, this show is for you.
The Drums will share the stage with the Indiana indie rock group Hoops, as part of their tour.
The Indiana natives recently released their collection of three mixtapes, titled “Tapes #1-3.” The compilation is available for streaming on all popular music streaming services and is the band’s final step toward approaching a more serious, full-length project.
Tickets cost $20 to $40, which is keeping it consistent with other tour dates and may be found on www.ticketfly.com.
Doors open Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. and the show is set to start at 8 p.m. at Tricky Falls, located at 209 S. El Paso St.
