(((SOUNDWEAR))): THE DRUMS’ Mope-Pop Meets Preppy Style

September 23, 2010

There’s nothing I like better than some good old fashioned mope-pop (not to be confused with the Pope of Mope, Morrissey, although actually I guess it IS to be confused, or at least compared…um nevermind, carry on). The Cure and The Smiths rank pretty high in terms of prevalence in my playlists (cozily nestled between The Marcels and some Dipset for good measure) and don’t even get me started on the Psychedelic Furs (there’s a reason their songs scored more than a few angsty 80s teen films). With my predilection for bittersweet Brit-pop, it’s no surprise then that one of my favorite new bands is New York City indie outfit The Drums, whose brand of catchy melancholy has captured the hearts of fans and critics alike (and allegedly the famously discerning Moz himself).

You probably saw them perform at the VMAs this year or maybe you’ve been driving too fast all summer listening to this:

So while I’m not busy cry-rocking out to The Drums, I like to step back and admire their grimey prepster look. Repressed but remarkably dressed, one part polished, one part Outsiders, the charming men of The Drums run a slightly retro style game that suits their throwback brand of music. And you too can acheive this slightly tortured, bookish bad boy look:

You can also download The Drums’ self-titled album on Itunes now.