It’s been awhile since the release of Vampire Weekend’s latest album, “Contra”, and I have to admit I wasn’t too crazy about the album at first, but a few listens in and I was hooked.   VW took it’s greatest elements from it’s previous  albums (catchy lyrics, upbeat tempos, and stellar vocals), used and abused them, and created something truly magnificent.

If you’ve ever attended a VW concert many of the songs on here will be familiar.  I remember first hearing the songs “White Sky” and “Giant” and fell in love, however I was a bit skeptical how they carry that energy they had on stage into the studio.  Although there stage presence and ability to make you dance like you never have before didn’t quite make it on the recordings, they still did a great job carrying creating a unique ablum while continuing to keep the original listeners happy.

The album begins with a track titled “Horchata” which uses an odd, but incredible mix of marimbas, synthesizers, and their signature African beats.  Next up we have “White Sky” with it’s crisp guitar and simple, yet elegant bassline and the appropriately titled “Holiday”, an upbeat track that can’t help but make you smile.  After we hear “California English”, which is almost ironically titled considering it’s taseful use of autotune (something some artists may never achieve).  Other notable tracks include “Cousins”, “Giving up the Gun”, and “I Think Ur a Contra”.

It’s difficult to compare it to their previous album considering they offer different things to the table.  The self-titled album was so great because it gave us something brand new.  “Contra” takes what they had before, perfects it, and makes it a bit more palatable to those who may not have enjoyed VW first album.  I would say they not only beat the sophomore slump many amazing artists fall victim to, but have actually created an album that is arguably better.

Overall I would give the album a 4.5/5, only because the album’s intensity does level off in the last few tracks.  If you aren’t completely hooked on the first listen, give it a few more chances and I guarantee  it will be some of the best tunes you’ve heard in awhile (hence the late-ish review).

You can check them out at:
The Fox Theater in Pomona on April 14th (Sold Out)

Coachella Music Festival on April 16th

Seriously if you get a chance check them out… their live shows are one not to miss!

– Brian
Electronic Frequencies – Wed 10PM-2AM