Contra

“Contra,” the second studio album by Vampire Weekend, stands as a testament to the band’s evolution and experimentation with their signature indie rock sound. Released in January 2010, the album received critical acclaim and debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, solidifying Vampire Weekend’s status as one of the most innovative bands of their time.

Building on their unique blend of African music influences with indie rock, “Contra” incorporates a diverse range of genres, including ska, dancehall, dance music, and synth-pop. Produced by band member Rostam Batmanglij, the album showcases a more mature and expansive sound, with layered instrumentation and intricate production techniques.

The album’s title, “Contra,” serves as a thematic allegory, referencing not the Nicaraguan counter-revolutionaries but the 1987 video game of the same name. Lead singer Ezra Koenig has stated that the album’s lyrics explore themes of opposition and conflict, reflecting a desire to be compassionate even towards those with whom one disagrees. The album’s title and lyrics challenge traditional notions of rebellion in rock music, embracing a more nuanced understanding of opposition and privilege.

The cover art of “Contra,” featuring a candid Polaroid of a woman from 1983, sparked controversy when the woman, identified as Ann Kirsten Kennis, sued Vampire Weekend, XL Recordings, and photographer Tod Brody for $2 million for using the photo without her permission. Despite the legal dispute, the album’s cover art remains an iconic symbol of the band’s aesthetic and ethos.

In popular culture, the song “Cousins” from “Contra” has been featured in various media, including films like “Peter Rabbit” and “The Kids are All Right,” as well as video games like “Tony Hawk: Shred” and “Pro Evolution Soccer 2011.” The album’s widespread acclaim and cultural impact cemented Vampire Weekend’s status as one of the most influential bands of the decade.