A euphoriant is something which produces a feeling of euphoria, or a feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness. This time, however, it’s not a drug but a trio of seasoned musicians. Euphoria is exactly what the listener may experience while listening to the band’s self-titled debut The Euphoriants. Joe Sumner released four studio albums with Fiction Plane between 2003 and 2015. He is also the eldest son of Sting (The Police).

Along with lead vocalist/bassist Sumner is guitarist/vocalist Scrote, who has worked with Adrian Belew, Todd Rundgren, The MC5’s Wayne Kramer, and Jackson Browne among many others. Rounding out the trio is drummer Blair Sinta, who boasts a résumé including tours and recording with major artists such as Annie Lennox, Chris Cornell, and Alanis Morissette.

“Remember My Name” is a proper opening track, showcasing the bandmates’ individual musical skills. Sinta’s drums are hectic and Scrote’s guitar is manic – both playing with intention and creating the perfect groove with Sumner’s vocals and bass. The song order was well-planned, and each tune complements the previous. Sounding like starving beginners in “The Dream,” the band proclaims, “We’ll sell all our records and we’ll sleep outside / We’ve got to do what it takes to keep the dream alive / We’ll drink what they tell us cause we’re here for the ride / We’ve got to do what it takes to keep the dream alive.”

The out-there “Space Says” seems to be a departure from Sumner’s normal comfort zone and may have been inspired by his role in the recent Celebrating David Bowie tour. Sumner has challenged himself to reach new heights and greater potential on this album, and the collaboration with Scrote and Sinta has paid off. Listeners may agree “Crimes of Your Ex” is likely the most fun track on The Euphoriants (listen HERE). “Do You Like the Music” is a mid-tempo rocker boldly asking listeners that ultimate question. Fans of any singing Sumner – or of rock, in general – should answer with a resounding yes.

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