There’s an extensive thread on an email group I belong to that’s titled, “Dear Vampire Weekend: Nice knowing you before the real hype hit. Good luck!” with a link to the Pitchfork review of the group’s self-titled debut album. The thread goes on to note that it’s the first major review that’s almost wholly enthusiastic and positive, which begs the question: how much is an 8.8 really worth anymore, and does it help or hurt a band to have pre-release hype?
Without boring you with a Superbird breakdown of the VW, I will say that it’s a buoyant, sunny, wonderful little pop record that smacks of late 70’s post-punk spunk and nostalgic, worldly-sounding folksinger lilts a la Simon & Garfunkel. Yes, it appeals to college kids and hip moms, and that seems to be the kiss of death amongst the critical contingent - if it’s not unaccessible, it doesn’t deserve praise as an “indie” record. Regardless of which side of the Vampire Weekend fence you’re standing on, it’s not hard to fathom that these kids will do just fine for themselves.
What do you think the fates hold for these guys?
2 responses so far ↓
wendy // Jan 29, 2008 at 1:33 pm
I know there will be a lot of Paul Simon comparisons, but this band really reminds me a bit of The English Beat.
It’s funny, I have read so much about this band but this is the first time I actually listened. Classic example of the band name being so off-putting to me that I ignored them. However, I have to say I REALLY like this, not at all what I expected.
tankboy // Jan 29, 2008 at 4:44 pm
They’re likable enough, but they’re no 8.8. And I thought Rucins had a REALLY good point about buzz stifling bands and killing their momentum before they even release an album or come through town.
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