The Saint

Issue date: 1/22/10 Section: Entertainment

Copyright Vampire Weekend

In early 2008, Vampire Weekend burst onto the indie music scene with a catchy blend of chamber pop and feel-good island beats.

The New York quartet's self-titled debut album was deemed an instant classic in indie circles and the music world eagerly awaited a follow up effort.

The band's sophomore album, Contra, is a sparkling example of originality and fun. The album features Vampire Weekend's patented tribal rhythm, with a new twist on the frantic melodies that made them famous.

In place of the thick, layered tunes that were a hallmark of their first album, VW has thinned things out a bit, such as with the soft piece "Taxi Cab." It feels as though the boys have approached the Contra tunes more delicately in an effort to accent the cheerful melodies contained inside.

Perhaps this thinner, more varied approach is exactly what Vampire Weekend was missing on their previous album.

There is a flow in Contra, from the surf-rock, jumpy pace of the single "Cousins," to the quasi-80's rhythm of "Giving Up the Gun." The tracks move seamlessly, resulting in an album that is almost impossible to turn off.

What the Students Say

"I love all the percussion instruments that the drummer uses. It makes their sound so distinct."
-Chris Gilliam, freshman music education major

"It sounds like the soundtrack to a Seth Rogan movie."
-Kip Sparks, freshman biology major

"A great foot-tapping album. Vampire Weekend has yet to let me down."
-Caleb Raines, freshman undecided major

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