Vampire Weekend released their latest video for Giving Up The Gun, which features a cameo line-up including Joe Jonas, Jake Gyllenhaal, RZA, and Lil Jon.

As important as the first album may be for a band, the second album is what defines the longevity of their career. Vampire weekend dug a groove into the indie world in 2008 with their self-titled debut album. Their Paul Simon style is undeniably catchy, creating a genre of its own, deemed “Happy Music”.

The problem with amazing debut albums is trying to top the success you’ve created. Anything less is a step backwards and ultimately considered a failure. Containing singles like Oxford Comma, A-Punk and Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa, the band was assigned no easy task.

Personal style plays a huge factor when reviewing Contra as a whole, and more so by track. I will leave the heavy dissecting to you, the listener. Overall, this album is a success merely because Vampire Weekend refused to press Ctrl-C, Ctrl-V from their first record.

Grade: A-

Song Standouts:
- Run
- White Sky
- Taxi Cab