The Vaccines – What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?

Band: The Vaccines
Album: What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?

The Vaccines have already released their debut full-length in the UK, but the album is now making its North American debut. The 4-piece is comprised of Justin Young (vocals), Árni Hjörvar (bass), Freddie Cowan (guitar), and Pete Robertson (drums). The Vaccines sparked quite an interest with their digital self-titled EP, drawing expectations for their full-length, which resulted in the aptly titled What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?

Well, it shouldn’t be surprising that The Vaccines have done exactly what one may have expected based on their 3-song EP – that is, put together an album that expands on what we already know we love about The Vaccines. “Wreckin’ Bar (Ra Ra Ra)” kicks off the album, a song that is over almost as soon as it starts, not even making it to a minute and a half. For those who hadn’t heard it on their EP, it’s an excellent introduction to the band’s penchant for quick hitters.

Guitar solos, quick, hard-hitting drums, and tunes that just make you want to dance – that’s what you can expect from this album. Songs like “If You Wanna” and “Nørgaard” are just so undeniably catchy. There are surprises as well. “Wetsuit” is a hauntingly beautiful tune and “All In White” carries a much more expansive sound, as well as being one of the only tunes to make it over 4 minutes. The Vaccines show the listener that they are not just about explosive pop rock, as Young’s captivating voice really stands out.

The album carries a feeling of youthfulness, lyrically speaking to young love/lust. By the end of the album, as Young sings “If you want a bit of love, put your head on my shoulder, it’s cool” on “Family Friend,” Young certainly grabs at the heartstrings of the listener. The song then builds up to this epic, frenzied finale. A fine ending – if it was the ending. The hidden track “Somebody Else’s Child” officially ends the album, a beautiful, intimate tune featuring Young and a piano. It’s a surprise ending, given how the album begins, but it proves that The Vaccines have more up their sleeves than just pop rock/punk. For a debut from a band that’s only been around a year, it has certainly exceeded my expectations.

What Did You Expect From The Vaccines? is officially out today, May 31st, via Columbia Records.

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