Carmel – The Drum Is Everything

Carmel – The Drum Is Everything

Released in 1984, The Drum Is Everything is the distinctive debut album from British band Carmel, fronted by the powerful and expressive vocalist Carmel McCourt alongside bassist Jim Paris and drummer Gerry Darby. Produced by Mike Thorne, the album blends jazz, blues, soul and pop into a bold, rhythm-driven sound that stands apart from much of the British pop music of the era.

The album opens with the infectious energy of More, More, More, setting the tone with its punchy rhythms, prominent horns and soulful vocals. Carmel's interpretation of the jazz standard Stormy Weather brings a bluesier, more restrained mood, while the title track and I Thought I Was Going Mad showcase the band's unconventional approach to songwriting and arrangement. The percussion-led The Prayer adds another dimension to this eclectic collection.

The second side continues with the spirited Rockin' On Suicide and Rue St. Denis (Version), before returning to jazz and soul influences on Willow Weep For Me and Tracks Of My Tears. Closing with Bad Day, the album captures the group's adventurous mix of expressive vocals, jazz-influenced instrumentation and distinctive rhythms.

Combining the sophistication of jazz with the energy of soul, blues and alternative pop, The Drum Is Everything is an excellent choice for listeners who enjoy adventurous 1980s music. A compelling debut from Carmel, it will appeal to fans of jazz-pop, soulful female vocals and the more left-field sounds of the decade.

Tracklist:

Side A
A1. More, More, More
A2. Stormy Weather
A3. The Drum Is Everything
A4. I Thought I Was Going Mad
A5. The Prayer (6:43)

Side B
B1. Rockin' On Suicide
B2. Rue St. Denis (Version)
B3. Willow Weep For Me
B4. Tracks Of My Tears
B5. Bad Day