11 Best Songs by Vampire Weekend: Our Top Picks

Hey there, music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here, the beat-loving owner of Level Tunes, and I’ve got something special for you today. As a DJ and an avid music fan, I’m always eager to share the tracks that make my heart beat and feet move.

So, I decided to dive into the vibrant world of Vampire Weekend. These indie rock maestros have a knack for blending upbeat rhythms with thought-provoking lyrics, creating a sound that’s both unique and irresistibly catchy.

I’ve spent countless hours mixing tracks and grooving to tunes, and now, I want to share my personal picks of the 11 best songs by Vampire Weekend.

These tracks aren’t just songs; they’re sonic adventures that showcase the band’s evolution and artistry. From the peppy beats to the clever wordplay, each song tells a story, and I can’t wait to take you on this musical journey. Let’s rock this!

Here are the best songs by Vampire Weekend that you can check out:

List Of Best Songs by Vampire Weekend

Best songs by Vampire Weekend in a list format:

“A-Punk”

From the album “Vampire Weekend” (2008), released under XL Recordings, “A-Punk” is a song that instantly captures your attention. Its upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs are the work of Ezra Koenig, Rostam Batmanglij, Chris Baio, and Chris Tomson. This track is a burst of energy, encapsulating the youthful and vibrant essence of the band. I chose it because it’s not just a song; it’s an experience that transports you to a carefree world. The blend of Afro-pop-inspired melodies and punk energy makes it a standout, defining the band’s unique sound.

“Oxford Comma”

Featured on their debut album, “Vampire Weekend” (2008), “Oxford Comma” is another gem by Vampire Weekend under XL Recordings. This song, with its witty lyrics and playful melody, showcases the band’s clever wordplay and Koenig’s unique vocal style. The song questions the use of the Oxford comma in a humorous way, making it both intellectually engaging and musically enjoyable. The reason for its selection is its perfect balance of smart lyrics and an infectious beat, a combination that’s hard to come by.

“Step”

“Step” is from their third album, “Modern Vampires of the City” (2013), under XL Recordings. This song marks a mature turn in Vampire Weekend’s music. With a more introspective and melodic approach, it’s a reflection of the band’s growth. The harpsichord and Koenig’s contemplative lyrics create a serene, almost dreamlike atmosphere. It’s chosen for its poetic lyricism and the way it beautifully blends classical and modern elements, showing the band’s versatility.

“Hannah Hunt”

Also from “Modern Vampires of the City,” “Hannah Hunt” (2013) is a standout track. This song is a testament to Vampire Weekend’s storytelling prowess. The evocative lyrics, coupled with the gradual build-up of intensity in the music, makes for an emotionally resonant experience. It’s the kind of song that grows on you, revealing more depth with each listen. The choice of this song is due to its emotional impact and the seamless fusion of storytelling and musicianship.

“Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa”

This track from their debut album “Vampire Weekend” (2008), under XL Recordings, blends Afro-pop with indie rock. “Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa” is notable for its rhythmic complexity and catchy chorus. The song’s playful exploration of different cultures through music makes it both unique and delightful. It’s selected for its demonstration of the band’s ability to fuse diverse musical influences into a cohesive and enjoyable song.

“White Sky”

From the album “Contra” (2010), released by XL Recordings, “White Sky” is an example of Vampire Weekend’s evolution. The electronic elements and Koenig’s rapid-fire vocals create a mesmerizing effect. This song stands out for its experimental sound, showcasing the band’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. The reason for including “White Sky” is its energetic rhythm and innovative use of synthesizers, highlighting the band’s creative ambitions.

“Unbelievers”

“Unbelievers” is from “Modern Vampires of the City” (2013), a track that combines existential lyrics with a lively melody. The song’s exploration of faith and doubt, set against an upbeat tune, makes for a compelling contrast. It’s chosen for its ability to address profound themes while maintaining a light, catchy rhythm, a testament to the band’s lyrical and musical prowess.

“Diane Young”

Also from “Modern Vampires of the City” (2013), “Diane Young” is a fast-paced, energetic track. It stands out for its playful use of wordplay and sonic experimentation. The song’s exploration of youth and mortality, combined with its dynamic sound, makes it both thought-provoking and exhilarating. It’s included for its vibrant energy and innovative approach to songwriting.

“Harmony Hall”

From their fourth album, “Father of the Bride” (2019), released under Spring Snow and Columbia Records, “Harmony Hall” is a song that exudes warmth and nostalgia. The intricate guitar work and reflective lyrics create a sense of both familiarity and innovation. This song is chosen for its rich musical layers and the way it encapsulates the band’s artistic evolution.

“This Life”

Also from “Father of the Bride” (2019), “This Life” is a track that combines catchy melodies with introspective lyrics. Its upbeat rhythm belies the complexity of its themes, such as love and betrayal. The song’s blend of light-heartedness and depth makes it a unique addition to their discography. It’s selected for its ability to weave complex themes into an accessible and enjoyable song.

“Giving Up the Gun”

Featured on “Contra” (2010), “Giving Up the Gun” is a standout track for its compelling narrative and vibrant sound. The song’s mix of electronic and traditional elements creates a sound that is both modern and timeless. The reason for its inclusion is its engaging storytelling and the way it showcases Vampire Weekend’s range as musicians and storytellers.

Fun Facts: Best Songs by Vampire Weekend

“A-Punk”

• Fun Fact: The music video for “A-Punk” is a single continuous shot, featuring the band members and a series of playful visual effects. This unique approach to the video mirrors the song’s energetic and spontaneous style.

“Oxford Comma”

• Fun Fact: Despite its title, the song “Oxford Comma” does not actually use an Oxford comma in its lyrics. This ironic twist adds to the song’s charm and showcases Vampire Weekend’s knack for clever, tongue-in-cheek humor.

“Step”

• Fun Fact: “Step” interpolates a melody from a 1970s song by Bread, called “Aubrey,” and even references the original song’s lyrics. This blending of old and new is a hallmark of Vampire Weekend’s style, demonstrating their deep respect for musical history.

“Hannah Hunt”

• Fun Fact: “Hannah Hunt” was named after a real person Ezra Koenig met during his time at Columbia University. The song captures the sense of nostalgia and the passage of time, making it a deeply personal track for the band.

“Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa”

• Fun Fact: The song humorously mentions the famous fashion designer Peter Gabriel, and in response, Gabriel covered the song himself, playfully swapping his name with that of Vampire Weekend’s lead singer, Ezra Koenig.

“White Sky”

• Fun Fact: “White Sky” was performed live for the first time on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” in 2009, a year before its official release on the album “Contra.” This early debut gave fans a tantalizing preview of the band’s evolving sound.

“Unbelievers”

• Fun Fact: The song features a rich array of instrumentation, including an organ and a horn section, which adds to its vibrant and layered sound. This diversity of instruments showcases the band’s ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly.

“Diane Young”

• Fun Fact: The title “Diane Young” is a play on the phrase “dying young,” reflecting the song’s themes of youth and mortality. This wordplay is a classic example of Vampire Weekend’s clever use of language in their music.

“Harmony Hall”

• Fun Fact: The song took nearly six years to complete, with Ezra Koenig working on it intermittently. This long gestation period reflects the depth and complexity of the song’s composition.

“This Life”

• Fun Fact: “This Life” samples the 1983 song “Time to Say Goodbye” by iLevel, showcasing Vampire Weekend’s ability to incorporate diverse musical influences into their own unique sound.

“Giving Up the Gun”

• Fun Fact: The music video for “Giving Up the Gun” features cameos from several celebrities, including Jake Gyllenhaal, Joe Jonas, and RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan, adding a layer of star-studded fun to the song’s energetic vibe.

And there you have it, folks! A tour through Vampire Weekend’s most captivating songs, each a masterpiece in its own right. From clever wordplay to unique melodies, these tracks showcase the band’s incredible range and talent. Keep grooving, and until next time, stay tuned to Level Tunes for more musical gems!

Thanks for reading.

TBone