Review Summary: Less indie ass-shaking, but fun nonetheless.
The sophomore release can be daunting task for any band, and Vampire Weekend is no exception. In fact, with their 2008 self-titled debut making the band a household name this New York indie-pop quartet had their work cut out for them. The result is Contra, a ten track album which should satisfy fans but won't likely get the same kind of attention as their debut.
The band sounds like they're playing it safe, but that hasn't stopped them from expanding their sound. Mellower, almost ambient moments grace the record – and while that doesn't bring the album down it does mean less indie ass-shaking this time around. On tracks like “Holiday” and “Cousins” we hear the peppy Vampire Weekend that we are previously acquainted with, but on “Taxi Cab” and “I Think Ur a Contra” the band floats through new soundscapes. Some tracks on this record need more time to grow on you than songs on Vampire Weekend, but are enjoyable nonetheless.
Contra is a commendable second album. The band has affirmed their highly recognizable pop sound with this release while being where many a group produce uninspired sophomore records. Vampire Weekend show that they want more than just their fifteen minutes, and that's a sign this band will be around for a while. While it's nothing groundbreaking, Contra is worth listening for fans of the band. If you're looking to get into them, stick with their debut.
3/5
Stream:
http://www.myspace.com/vampireweekend
