I just picked up a copy of Vampire Weekend’s debut album, and it’s ace! I heard of New York City’s latest indie rock band to take the media by storm a week or two ago, and downloaded their album a few days back. After a few listens I was seriously hooked by their unique, indie, afro-beat influenced tunes - and just had to get my hands on the CD (yes - if I like something I download, I buy it!). They’ve been compared to Paul Simon’s ‘Graceland’ - for their afro-beat style, as well as a few other groups I’ve heard of, but have never really listened to.
Vampire Weekend consists of Ezra Koenig, Rostam Batmanglij, Chris Tomson, and Chris Baio. They met while going to Columbia University - and seem to be genuine ‘Ivy Leaguers’. They definitely have style as well - they were featured in the recent GQ issue, and look very preppy in that shoot. They are self-proclaimed specialists in “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa”, “Upper West Side Soweto”, “Campus”, and “Oxford Comma Riddim” - and one listen shows you just how musically talented they are (if you check the album insert, they all play multiple instruments).
It’s hard to choose favourites on this CD - almost every track is amazing. That being said, my current faves would have to be: Oxford Comma, Campus and M79. Listen to them below. For more info on Vampire Weekend, check out their official site. If you’d like to purchase a copy of their album (which I highly recommend you do), it should be available at all major retailers, both in store and online. Remember….make this weekend a Vampire Weekend!
Vampire Weekend - Oxford Comma
Vampire Weekend - M79
Vampire Weekend - Campus
