The Drums take fifth in BBC Sound list

Florida band The Drums have been announced as the first act on the BBC Sound of 2010 list.

The rundown showcases the stars tipped to make it big in the coming year, selected by more than 165 critics, bloggers and broadcasters.

The four-piece are the inaugural group to be revealed on this year's top five. The remaining four will be named in reverse order until Friday, when the winner will be unveiled.

Frontman Jonathan Pierce said that the band's success over their 12 months together has been down to their emphasis on pure, unadulterated songwriting.

"We only write about two feelings," he said. "One is the first day of summer when you and all of your friends are standing on the edge of a cliff watching the sun set and being overcome with all of your hopes and dreams at once.

"The other is when you're walking alone in the rain and realise you will be alone forever."