A younger Arctic Monkeys
While it is very obvious who The Drowners want to sound like (early Strokes and Arctic Monkeys-Tracks 1 & 8 and sometimes The Cure and The Smiths), it is less obvious how they will expand their sound. Due to the fact that neither The Strokes nor Arctic Monkeys want to sound like their younger selves someone else might as well. The Drowners are just as capable as the bands listened above to rip out a catchy, moody, swinging track. Take “Luv, Hold Me Down” (#3) for example. With some sweet throwback Smiths style guitar riffs and a melodic chorus it’s perfect to sing along to. Another stand out track is “Unzip Your Harrington” (#6). With a slower tempo, clever lyrics and Matt Hitt’s crooning vocals it’s pretty cool. So if you are looking for some moody simple British/underground NYC rock n’ roll give this a spin!
Recommended tracks: 3, 6, 7, 8, 1, 2, 5
RIYL: The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, The Smiths
Label: Frenchkiss
Release: January 2014
Reviewed by Emilie Stafford