Videos by American Songwriter
2010 has been a busy year for Vampire Weekend, starting with the release of sophomore effort Contra (XL Recordings) in January. Over the summer, the former model pictured on the album’s cover filed a lawsuit against the band for misappropriation of image. More recently, Contra was nominated for a Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. Now, the Brooklyn indie rock quartet have released a live iTunes session.
Vampire Weekend is often noted for having diverse influences and a willingness to experiment, both of which shine on this live set. Contra track “Holiday” gets a third-wave ska treatment with a horn section and a slower pace that lets the reggae influences show through. The set features a pair of covers; Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m Going Down” is tenderly delivered by frontman and fellow Jersey boy Ezra Koenig, and the Honeycombs’ “Have I The Right?” is given a jazzier take. Spirited versions of previous singles “Cousins,” “A-Punk,” and “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” also appear, freshened up with more live horns. Vampire Weekend may not have won a Grammy–or their lawsuit–yet, but this six-track session is a must-have for any fan.
Typically, I buy their albums… Typically… This new release is simply more electronic and drum kit sounding than anything. The classical harpsichord style of their first album seems to be completely washed out now, and all that is left is this electro-pop crap. Happy Honda Days, indeed… pfft. What a waste.
What is the little guitar ditty at the end of VW’s cover of I’m Going Down? I know it, but can’t place it. Help anyone?