Coming out of the shadows of a beloved frontman can be difficult, but with a touch of chutzpah and hint of charm, the quietest ones sometimes reveal that they have the most to say. Long regarded as the heart of Vampire Weekend, at least according to Karen Glauber, Baio—yes, he’s related to the Joanie Loves Chachi heartthrob—has honed his pop sensibilities. Contrary to most DJs who spend most of their sets intermittently fist pumping and adjusting (what I believe to be) volume knobs, he relied on the music to convey his message at the sold-out Echo. In a post-ironic world, the simplicity of his set was both endearing and impactful.

Baio’s single, “Sister of Pearl,” was a standout, an autumnal gem that will be stuck in my head through the many hours at temple that lie ahead of me, as I atone for my sins next week.

His eclectic solo LP, The Names, is due 9/18 via Glassnote, but if you're impatient like me, you can head to Noisey to stream it now.

L'chaim,
Naomi Robin