Album reviews: Modern Vampires of the city – Vampire Weekend


MODERN VAMPIRES OF THE CITY
Vampire Weekend
(The Label/Rhythmethod)

Lyrically these Vampires have certainly modernised for this third outing – ranging further from the college boy schtick on which they built their multi-platinum-sellers than regular fans might have imagined, or indeed hoped for.

Now as lead man Ezra Koenig approaches the milestone of 30, he’s happy to tour religion and ageing in urban landscapes… and even happier to throw the most bizarre references into the mix (honestly, have Google on hand for your first few listens).

But it’s the progress of their music which boosts this tricky third full-lengther into the realms of modern classics – gone are the ubiquitous African rhythms replaced by classical motifs and a grab bag of styles ranging from Irish folk to reggae, from hymnal choirs to 80s pop.

The range is incredible… catapulting them from posh indie darlings to stunning songsmiths and proving these New Yorkers aren’t just something for the weekend, they’re definitely in for the long haul.

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