Vampire Weekend's "Only God Was Above Us" - We are so back.

Vampire Weekend's latest album, "Only God Was Above Us," is like a breath of fresh air that's been steeped in nostalgia yet bursts with modernity. From the first notes of "Ice Cream Piano" to the closing sentiments of "Hope," this album is a masterclass in musical fusion, blending the familiar with the astonishingly new.

This album hits you right where it counts. It's not just about the music, which by itself is an ear kaleidoscope of delight, featuring everything from wild sax solos in the track "Classical" to the enchanting piano arpeggios that seem to cascade through every song. It's about how all these elements come together to tell a story—a story that's both personal and universal, with lyrics that delve deep into themes of war, inequality, and ultimately, acceptance.

What stands out in this album is the audaciousness of its sound. "Connect," for instance, is a track that demands your full attention, preferably with headphones, to appreciate its intricate layers and sonic surprises. Then there's "Mary Boone," which might trick you into thinking it's the easy-listening part of the album, until you realize it's just as rich and complex as the more aggressive tracks.

The album’s production quality deserves a shout-out. It's clear that every detail was painstakingly considered to create an auditory experience that’s not just heard but felt. Whether it’s the screaming slide guitar that cuts through the mix or the moments of dissonant beauty that leave you haunted in the best way possible, it’s a production marvel.

Fans of Vampire Weekend will find comfort in the familiarity of Ezra Koenig’s intimate vocals and the band's signature quirky lyrical style, which includes semi-arcane references that are a delight to decode. Yet, this album is anything but a rehash of old ideas. Each track feels like a journey through old sounds and old haunts to discover something entirely unexpected and new.

Tracks like "The Surfer" and "Prep-School" are slow burners that grow on you, revealing their brilliance bit by bit, while "Pravda" and "Capricorn" stand out as gems that showcase the band's ability to blend introspection with infectious melodies.

"Only God Was Above Us" is a beautiful exploration of sound and soul. It’s a return to form in the most unexpected ways, arguably the band's best work yet. It’s the kind of album that feeds your musical hunger—something so rich and fulfilling that it makes you wonder why releases like this are so rare.

In conclusion, Vampire Weekend has not just returned; they've evolved, bringing us an album that resonates with the times while still holding on to the unique essence that made us fall in love with them in the first place. So, strap in and let "Only God Was Above Us" take you on its grand, musical expedition. As said at the beginning, we are so back.