In an industry obsessed with cataloging and pigeonholing, it seems as though we have been duped by Vampire Weekend. Some say afro/ska/new-wave/prep rock with an indie twist. I say give praise when due to a new young band that has blended the above styles without sounding pretentious. On their debut self-titled release, the Columbia grads experiment with West African grooves (“Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa”), takeoffs on dance hall ska (“A-Punk”), and even throw in catchy, reggaeton-inspired numbers (“Mansard Roof”). Clean, unobtrusive guitars, retro circus pipe organ, percussive drumming, and simplistic bass grooves give the now-Brooklyn residents (surprise, surprise) a sound that’s definitely deserving of that hot new band buzz.

Login

Please note this login is to submit events or press releases. Use this page here to login for your Independent subscription

Not a member? Sign up here.