Vampire Weekend: Only God Was Above Us Review – time travelling | Indie

The latest offering from Vampire Weekend, “Only God Was Above Us,” is a testament to the band’s evolution and maturity over the past sixteen years. This album sees the New York natives delving into increasingly philosophical themes, shedding their preppy aesthetic for a more earnest and introspective approach. The result is a record that balances nostalgia with a sense of yielding and acceptance, reflecting the band’s growth and changing personal circumstances.

Building on the foundations laid by their previous albums, “Only God Was Above Us” showcases Ezra Koenig’s songwriting at its most contemplative and introspective. Songs like “Capricorn” delve into the complexities of aging and self-discovery, with Koenig reflecting on the passing of time and the nuances of identity. The album as a whole captures a sense of resignation to growing older while embracing new phases of life, a theme that resonates deeply throughout the record.

Musically, Vampire Weekend continue to experiment with different styles and influences on this album. Tracks like “Pravda” feature Lindsey Buckingham-esque flourishes, while “Gen X Cops” nods to arcane pop culture with a flood of frantic guitar hooks and intricate instrumentation. The album’s closer, “Hope,” showcases the band’s melodic strength in a slow-burning finale that ties together the record’s diverse sonic palette.

Overall, “Only God Was Above Us” is a bold and introspective offering from Vampire Weekend, showcasing a band at the peak of their creative powers. The album’s blend of retrospection and relinquishment to the future creates a sense of coming-of-age awareness that resonates throughout each track. With its poetic lyrics, diverse musical influences, and thematic depth, “Only God Was Above Us” is a standout addition to Vampire Weekend’s discography.

Rating: 8/10

Written by staticwire