Vampire Weekend—or, as they’re known by adoring fans everywhere, Vampy Weeky—have shared “Mary Boone” ahead of their new album Only God Was Above Us. According to three seconds of Google searching, the song pays homage to a famous art gallery owner/dealer/buyer. How oh-so very Vampy Weeky of them. The track features a sample of the drum loop from “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” by Soul II Soul. Aside from this flip, the track includes a full choir, a string section, and warbling synths. The sample, weirdly enough, works. I guess that’s why Koenig is the musical genius and here I am blogging.
The visual for the track stars rapper Despot—who previously appeared on the remix of VW’s “Step” alongside Danny Brown and Heems—driving from New Jersey to Manhattan via the Lincoln Tunnel. The press release rather rudely points out that Despot has never released an album. But has that press release ever worked with Ratatat, El-P, Lil Yachty, or billy woods? Game, set, match.
A reminder that on April 8, Vampire Weekend will celebrate Only God Was Above Us release week in Austin under a total eclipse. The show will be broadcasted via Veeps, but honestly, if you’re not there watching the band and eclipse through your Instagram Livestream at the event itself, you’re kinda a has-been or never-was.
Check out the video for the track below, and pre-order Only God Was Above Us ahead of its April 5 release here.
