- Label
- XL Recordings
- Release date
- 29th January 2008
- Genre
- Indie
- Buy this album
- Order CD
Charming, clever debut from Brooklyn four-piece
For a bizarre musical hydra which combines indie rock, punk elements, African pop and rock and Arcade Fire/Sigur Ros-esque sweeping classical washes, Vampire Weekend are surprisingly coherent. As opposed to contributing to a feeling of disjointment, these very different sounds combine harmoniously, hearkening back to the post-punk glory days of the early 80s but tempering the experimental excess of that era with sensible indie restraint.
The excellent musicianship on display here complements charming lyrics and epic production (particularly on the glorious, orchestral album finale, The Kids Don’t Stand A Chance). A blend of crisp African-influenced guitar, string sections, indie drumming and gently meandering harpsichords is shot through each of the songs here – from lively tracks such as Hansard Roof and Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa to the slower numbers. Despite all this, the quirks are handled with care and never steer the band into novelty territory. An innovative and confident debut.
More to try: Talking Heads: Remain In Light Bow Wow Wow: See Jungle… Tortoise: TNT
