Vampire Weekend ‎– Only God Was Above Us

Vampire Weekend’s “Only God Was Above Us” is a whirlwind tour of the band’s sound, cranked up to a new level of intensity. It’s both familiar and surprising, with elements of their previous albums woven together with darker, more adventurous sonic explorations. The title, referencing a headline about a plane incident, hints at the album’s themes of transformation and the unexpected.

Songs like “Prep School Gangsters” harken back to their earlier indie rock sound with a touch of Grateful Dead influence, while tracks like “The Surfer” blend lo-fi hip hop beats with psychedelic flourishes. The production is diverse, seamlessly shifting between opulent jazz arrangements and raw, distorted guitars. Lyrically, the album tackles social issues and class divides, with Ezra Koenig’s signature wordplay adding depth and intrigue. From the soaring strings of “Ice Cream Piano” to the anthemic chorus of “Capricorn,” “Only God Was Above Us” is a captivating listen that pushes Vampire Weekend’s boundaries while staying true to their unique sound.