The Drums’ Latest Single is a Lesson in Vulnerability

Written by Natalie Melendez

Vulnerability is never easy, but for The Drums’ Jonny Pierce, vulnerability is a necessary precursor to healing. Throughout the span of their 15-year career, the alt-pop band has embraced the heavy themes of love, depression, and religious trauma in their profound and startlingly blunt lyricism. All the while, The Drums have crafted a unique blend of 80s-inspired rock (heard most prominently in their 2010 self-titled debut) and groovy, synth forward melodies. It’s a combination that has afforded the now-one-man group global success and a unique space within the ever changing indie-pop landscape.

In their recent single, “I Want It All,” Pierce continues to open his heart like the pages of a diary. This time, he delves deeper into the details of his troubled childhood.

“The song emerged from the longing and the pain that stemmed from a loveless childhood,” said the singer in a statement. “It is only in the past few years that I have really begun to understand what happened to me as a boy, which has helped me start to build my own bridge towards real love.”

Indeed, the new single offers notes of somber reflection: “I sensed a hesitation / The first time that you held me / So I closed the eyes of my heart.” It’s an expulsion of a deep-rooted trauma that has appeared most strikingly in the later years of Pierce’s life. Now in his 40s, the singer is ready to heal. 

“The song is a declaration – that I will take what I was never given,” added Pierce. “I want the full experience of being human, which includes love and connection. I want it all.”

The single’s titular lyrics, repeated over and over in the chorus, are accompanied by jaunty beats. There’s an air of liberation that signals the start of a new beginning — fresh and full of love.

At the time of the song’s release, The Drums’ forthcoming sixth album remains unannounced, though Pierce’s socials indicate that it is well underway. For now, the band are set to embark on a North America summer tour with Cold Hart.