Vampire Weekend's third album is a remarkable progression from a band that was already functioning at a high level.

The songs are more spontaneous and dynamic and, along with the more lived-in sonics, Modern Vampires finds the group taking a leap forward into emotional directness.

"Wisdom's a gift but you'd trade it for youth," Koenig sings.

Still, Vampire Weekend make a damn good case for wisdom all across Modern Vampires. Yes, this is a more grown-up album. It largely trades in the Africa-inspired giddiness of their first two records for a sound that's distinctly innate and closer to the ear.

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Pitchfork
Vampire Weekend - Modern Vampires of the City Review