Nov 17, 2009

After unveiling the good, but not entirely soul-stirring single, “Horchata,” Vampire Weekend keep the Hype Machine well oiled with this second single from Contra. The levels of hype and anticipation for the sophomore LP are already reaching unbelieveable levels and we’re not even into January folks! Silly backlashes will invariably ensue but the “A-Punk”-like “Cousins” keeps the foursome’s momentum going after some intimate California gigs. UPDATE: The track has been taken down per request of the Web Sheriff.

It’s one catchy slice of pop-punk! Chris Tomson (drums) and Chris Baio’s (bass) percussive interplay sort of reminds me of Drums and Wires-era XTC. Contra drops January 12th via XL. Check out the indie-pop band’s new dates below:

12-10 Portland, OR - Crystal Ballroom (94.7FM “A December to Remember” concert series)
12-11 Oakland, CA @ Oracle Arena (Live 105 “Not So Silent Night 2009”)
12-12 - La Jolla, CA @ RIMAC Arena/UC San Diego (FM949 “Holiday Hootenanny”)
12-13 - Los Angeles, CA @ Gibson Amphitheater (KROQ “Acoustic Christmas”)
12-15 - Seattle, WA @ WaMu Theater (KNDD The End’s “Deck the Hall Ball”)
01-12 Los Angeles, CA - Henry Fonda Theater
01-17 New York, NY @ United Palace Theater
01-18 New York, NY @ Webster Hall
01-19 New York, NY @ Bowery Ballroom