The number of media-touted “buzz bands” playing this weekend’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is astounding; once tragically hip underground groups known only by self-proclaimed hipster scum now pepper the lineup like silver sedans on the 110 freeway. Quite possibly the most anticipated performance by one of these rising bands comes from Ivy League prepsters Vampire Weekend.

One of the most ironically-named bands currently exploding across the airwaves, Vampire Weekend shatters its unfitting moniker’s connotations (Hot Topic and eyeliner, anyone?) with an arsenal of treble-heavy guitars, Afro-influenced drum beats, and soothing synth hooks. To top it all off, the band sings of yacht clubs, Cape Cod, and the “woes” of privileged Northeastern living—all while sporting a snazzy, snobtastic wardrobe.
After releasing their self-titled debut earlier this year, Vampire Weekend has skyrocketed to the top of the indiepop heap with a handful of TV appearances, magazine covers, and hit music videos. But, as all discerning music fans know, only time can tell if the band’s success and acclaim will carry past their well-timed first release.
While you get a feel for Vampire Weekend’s sound by listening to “Mansard Roof,” pull out your Keds, polos, and plaid shorts—Vampire Weekend is making East Coast snobbery cool again.
