Whether you believe it or not, you’re more familiar with Rostam than you think. Rostam Batmanglij is a singer-songwriter, composer and producer. And he was a founding member of the New York-based indie outfit Vampire Weekend. But Rostam venture away from the super catchy indie-pop tunes of his previous group and take things solo. His upcoming album is due out in September called Half-Light, to be released on Nonesuch Records. So far he’s released two songs from the album called “Gwan” and “Bike Dream.”
Rostam has produced tracks for artists like Solange and Frank Ocean (and will work with Haim on their upcoming record) and he’s sung and recorded with Hamilton Leithauser. But aside from working with all these major artists, focusing on his own music is definitely becoming a priority. Surely it’s in question of longtime fans whether or not Rostam will get together with Vampire Weekend again in the future, and while it isn’t something that he’s totally ruled out, for now he’s just cruising along and riding this wave wherever it decides to go (as he perfectly should).
When you listen to Rostam’s music maybe you’ll hear a spark of his old sound, but the main jolt of his music is very instrumental, full of color, and is dreamy like a summer soundtrack. Always prepare for elements of surprise, though, when you listen to Rostam–and always be sure to have too much fun.
Music Hall of Williamsburg
9/27
w/ Kelly Zutrau, Deradoorian
8 p.m.
$25
Tickets (on sale 8/4 @ noon)