The biggest and trendiest indie band in the world at the moment (new album Contra has debuted at no.1 in the billboard chart, only the 12th independently distributed album to reach no.1) could not have existed even five years ago. The great indie crisis of 96-99 produced only dull plodding Coldfuckingplay/Oasis types who ignored the evolution of rhythm, which was left for 'urban' music to advance, and seemed to be content with making songs which would have seemed unbearably boring throughout the previous four decades of rock/pop. This resulted in music fans leaving indie in droves and going to urban music/computer games/dancehall/drum n bass etc. The balance was redressed somewhat at the begining of the decade with a rock resergence (Strokes, White Stripes, Libertines). However indie remained less fashionable than other types of music. This had the positive effect of opening indie types to previously unexplored terrain (Wu-tang, techno, drone, noise and older funk and folk records supplied by the growing reissues market). Thus come the end of the decade indie groups began to explore rhythm and pop (Animal Collective, Gang Gang Dance, MIA), just as the post punk artists did before them. This is why Vampire Weekend bear close comparison with groups such as Orange Juice, Dexy's & Talking Heads.
Lightness of touch, an openness to all music including global musics, and an ear for a tune you will want to hear over and over makes VW the new face of indie. They inspire love or hatred in those who hear them, thanks to Ezra Koenig's prep school priviledge image. However the lack of self obsession and simple joy of the music will win the day.
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