After waiting three years since their last album, “Coming of Age,” The Vaccines are back and better than ever with their latest album “English Graffiti”. The album was released on May 26, 2015, and is one of the best albums I have heard so far this year.
“I am a big fan of The Vaccines, and I am so excited that they released new songs since it’s been such a long time,” said freshman Monique Legaspi.
The Vaccines, a small indie rock band formed in London, is comprised of Justin Young (guitar and vocals), Árni Hjörvar (bass), Freddie Cowan (guitar), and Pete Robertson (drums).
The Vaccines are known for their Jesus And Mary Chain-like “calming and unreal” sound, subtle indie rock vibes, and slow, melodic songs about love and life.
However, when I played the first track from their latest album, “Handsome,” I was surprised to be hit with a quick drum and catchy electro beat. Either way, I was instantly lured in.
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The album shows great evolution from the melancholy vibes of their debut album, “What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?” to more catchy, upbeat tunes with heavier electro influences.
The album starts off with a strong upbeat sound, with ones such as “Handsome,” slowly transitioning into the slower, more emotional songs, such as “Minimal Affection,” and then into the more “electrofied” songs toward the end, such as “Miracle.”
Even though the band took a fresh twist on this album, they were able to retain their original sound from previous albums in their slower, romantic songs such as “Want You So Bad” and “Maybe I Could Hold You.”
However, the difference between their previous albums and this one is that the older one was more touchy-feely and not really one you can blast in your car.
Despite having some favorite songs on their older albums, such “A Lack Of Understanding” from their debut one, they could get boring at times since they were not always songs that I could vibe to while going to school or doing homework as they were more like heartbreak emotional catharsis songs.
“English Graffiti” is catchy and cool and keeps you hooked from start to finish. There is something for everyone on there, and they have shown great improvement in their playing and songwriting.
“I think being able to sustain your original sound but still be able to grow as a writer and musician is a really rare thing, and shows real talent. Most people just copy off each other nowadays and don’t try to step outside their comfort zone. But the fact that The Vaccines were able to step outside and make unique work is just another reason why I love this album,” says freshman Taylor Viana.
The only negative thing I could say about this album is the fact that there are not more songs to listen to.
Overall, I would give “English Graffiti” a 9/10. I think “English Graffiti” was amazing from start to finish and is The Vaccines’ best work yet. This album rocks and is the real definition of quality indie rock music. A+ for The Vaccines!
What do you think of “English Graffiti” and the Vaccine’s new style?