The genre mashing quartet from New York have done it again with this second LP. The success of their self titled debut from early 2008 laid the path for the genius that is 'Contra'.

Clearly growing, as artists and people, has brought them to this strategically mixed up album. Not many bands can take influence from reggae, calypso, ska, mix it up with a dollop of pop-synth and sprinkle of xylophone and make something so creatively sound. Opening track, 'Horchata', literally pulls down the pants of conformity, in the middle of whole school assembly, while the girl he likes is standing next to him.

With a beat to rival a samba band, violins, and group vocals that fill the whole song with warmth, as a band they have done exactly what they wanted to, and it couldn't have worked out any better. To look at, you would  expect the Columbia University graduates, would be firing out the same old wannabe Smiths comeback that you see so often with emerging bands today. Quite the contrary, they prove themselves with talents way beyond their years.

Almost like a current day, US west coast version of 'The Beat', giving you music that you can equally think about or skank to. At the same time giving you melodically sound gaps to have a rest in between.

Taking sample from the massively popular 'MIA,' in track 'Diplomats son', not only bridges the gap between todays pop culture and an already different style, but also shows the diversity of an already proven diverse band. Ending with track 'I think ur a contra', they have put their neck on the line in the best possible way. Using this song to show that simplicity works with difference, and scattering musical influences can leave you with the most logical product.

'Contra' says something about the ambition of Vampire Weekend, and in this album they have achieved something that has raised the bar on what four guys with a vision can pull off, given artistic licence and a loyal backing. A musically well put together and thought provoking album.