Yes, Contra, the sophomore release by ivy-leaguers Vampire Weekend, has been out since January 8th, but I finally got a chance to listen to the entire album this weekend.  After six full spins of the disc and the songs still playing throughout my dreams, I came to the conclusion that this is, and probably will be, one of the best albums of 2010.  As most of us in the Midwest and on the East Coast are dealing with frigid temperatures, this album acts as a heat wave, sending hot island beats and soothing vocals through our stereos.  With this album being only ten tracks deeps, it proves that these intellectual New Yorkers are more concerned with releasing quality than quantity.  Although the entire CD is arranged, organized, and produced beautifully, stand out tracks include the opening number “Horchata” and “Diplomat’s Son” which samples M.I.A.’s “Hussel”. It is safe to assume that Contra will be the music played at several backyard parties this upcoming summer and on the list of 2010’s best.  To learn more about Vampire Weekend, please visit www.vampireweekend.com