Vampire Weekend's fifth studio album, Only God Was Above Us, is a masterful blend of pop hooks, punky energy, and baroque grandeur. Released on 5 April 2024 through Columbia Records, this 10-track album marks a new chapter in the band's journey, with vocalist-guitarist Ezra Koenig, bassist Chris Baio, and drummer Chris Tomson forming the trio's core.
With a duration of 47 minutes, Only God Was Above Us is a deeply personal and self-referential release, delving into the band's own history and place within the broader musical landscape. The album's themes of history and self-discovery are woven throughout the tracklist, which features songs such as Ice Cream Piano, Classical, and Hope.
As a work of indie and baroque pop, Only God Was Above Us is characterised by its bittersweet tone, with the trio revisiting the sounds of their earlier albums and imbuing them with a newfound sense of darkness and complexity. The result is an album that is both a reflection on the past and a bold step forward, showcasing Vampire Weekend's unique ability to craft music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply affecting.
With Only God Was Above Us, Vampire Weekend has created an album that is sure to resonate with fans and critics alike, its intricate soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics making for a compelling listen. As the band embarks on a 39-date tour in support of the album, it is clear that Only God Was Above Us is a significant milestone in Vampire Weekend's career, and one that will be eagerly anticipated by audiences around the world.
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