MKE Band Camp is a music series on OnMilwaukee, giving you the quick 411 on upcoming concerts in the 414.
Ring in the summer concert season with Vampire Weekend at the BMO Harris Pavilion this Saturday, June 8. It’s the band's first time back in Milwaukee since 2014, so don't let this opportunity pass! The show kicks off at 7:30 p.m.
Price of admission
Tickets start at just $34. Die-hard fans can still snag PIT tickets for $71.50 a piece. Click here to buy.
Why you can't miss it
Formed back in the Ivy League basements of Columbia University in 2006, Vampire Weekend would go on to drop its self-titled debut album to critical acclaim in 2008 thanks to its clever mix of Afro-pop and whimsical lyrics. The group followed its debut’s release with two more chart-topping albums, "Contra" and "Modern Vampires of the City," creating a body of work that would later be known as a trilogy. Since then, Vampire Weekend has become one of the most popular indie bands of all time, in line with industry titans like Radiohead and Arcade Fire.
Now, after almost six years of silence, Vampire Weekend is back – and with a bang. The band's longest album yet, "Father of the Bride" proves Ezra Koenig and company still have a lot to say. The band’s eclectic musical taste is omnipresent with creative samplings, narrative voiceovers and country-twinged duets. The single "Harmony Hall" has already become a new fan favorite, showcasing what the band does best: being serious without doing it too seriously. Vampire Weekend has progressed beyond mid-2000s indie-pop without losing their voice.
Song starter pack
The Hit: "A-Punk"
Released on Vampire Weekend's debut album, "A-Punk" boasts an astounding 176 million listens on Spotify. By far the peppiest Vampire Weekend song, you can replace their music video with your morning cup of coffee.
B-Side Beauty: "Everlasting Arms"
Like most Vampire Weekend songs, the lyrics leave a lot of room for interpretation. Give it a listen and see if you can decipher the band’s lyrical code. Hint: A higher power is involved.
Can't Wait to See it Live: "Giving Up the Gun"
"Giving Up the Gun" exemplifies the band’s ability to wrap pensive lyrics in bright melodies. Check out the original music video and enjoy the cameos from Jake Gyllenhaal, Joe Jonas and Lil Jon.
