Textual Analysis No. 2

Vampire Weekend is an indie rock band, formed in New York City in 2006; they rose to prominence in 2008. The band consists of lead vocalist and guitarist Ezra Koenig, guitarist/keyboardist and backing vocalist Rostam Batmanglij, drummer and percussionist Chris Tomson and bassist and backing vocalist Chris Baio. Diane Young appears on their third album Modern Vampires of the City.  Prior to the band’s formation, Ezra Koenig was touring with The Dirty Projectors throughout a time of creative experimentation with African music. Its individual sound aroused Koenig’s interest, therefore world music rhythms were injected in a whole host of Vampire Weekend’s work, particularly within their second album Contra. Their third album, however, was a clear exodus from the African-inspired sounds of their previously audacious work, which is suggestive of their maturity. This point is reinforced by the albums mature and sophisticated premises within their lyrics, such as religion and growing old. Diane Young addresses adulthood signifying death and the actual name of the song is a play on the phrase ‘Dying Young’. The promotional video was directed by Primo Kahn and contains appearances from an array of musicians including Chromeo, Sky Ferreira, Despot, Hamilton Leithauser, Dave Longstreth and Santigold.

The narrative centres on a large dinner gathering around a long, thin table, adapted from the Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci – another reference to ‘dying young’. The opening shot is an establishing, long medium shot to accurately replicate the painting; the camera zooms in slowly to indicate this is our object of concentration. Within this shot a blue backdrop, which covers the majority of the far wall, is placed, accompanied by two bamboo palm plants positioned in front. This provides the slight illusion of an exotic location, expressing affluence. This is supported by some of the room’s items, such as the Greek-style pillars, gold candlesticks and the decadent feast sited on the table. However, the film is noticeably set inside, denoted by the ceiling light, dimly illuminating the room. The light is distinctively modern which clarifies the video is located within a contemporary setting, in addition to the modern apparel and coffee machine. All characters appear to be engaged in separate activities and conversations, portraying segregation.

The next shot depicts a close up of the man located in the centre of the table, perhaps representing Christ, insinuated by his composition. He wears a black balaclava, creating the image of an offender. He seems fixated on an IPhone with a white plastic case, it bears diamantes arranged to form the initials of ‘Diane Young’ which is ironic regarding his ‘bandit’ image. The use of the modern day devise could suggest be modern day’s equivalent of Jesus. After the decline in religion’s popularity, people now idealise alternatives, such as celebrities; however, this instance represents society’s adoration for negative figures. This concept relates to Vampire Weekend’s song Unbelievers which is found on the same album.