Mastering the Psychedelic Pop Vibe
Weekend Wars is a standout track from MGMT's debut album Oracular Spectacular. Unlike the high-energy synth-pop of "Kids" or "Time to Pretend," this song relies heavily on acoustic textures and a vocal delivery that borders on nonchalant before soaring into falsetto. It requires a different kind of discipline: the ability to sound relaxed while maintaining pitch accuracy.
The song is sung by Andrew VanWyngarden and spans a moderate range in the verses, but challenges singers with its stylistic jumps and rhythm. Let's break down the vocal strategy.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Timing
Because the acoustic guitar strumming pattern is rhythmic and driving, singers often rush the vocal line. The AI analysis shows that the best scores come from singers who sit slightly "behind the beat" to capture that lazy, psychedelic feel.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 1:15)
The verses ("I'm a curse and I'm a sound...") sit comfortably in the E3 to B3 range. This is "speaking range" for most male voices and a low chest range for female voices.
The Trap: It's easy to get lazy with intonation here because the style is so relaxed. Ensure you are actually hitting the center of the pitch rather than sliding around it too much. Keep the diction soft but audible.
Phase 2: The Falsetto Breaks
Throughout the song, and especially in the choruses, VanWyngarden flips into a light, airy head voice (hitting notes around E5 in harmonies). These transitions need to be seamless.
- Breath Support: Don't push too much air. The falsetto should sound floaty, not forced.
- Placement: Feel the resonance move from your chest up to the top of your head or behind your eyes.
Phase 3: The Climax (3:00 - End)
As the drums kick in harder and the song builds to its chaotic finish, the vocals need to cut through a denser mix. You can add a bit more "bite" or twang to your chest voice here to match the energy of the full band, but avoid screaming. The power comes from the diaphragm, not the throat.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal melody stays mostly within the fourth octave, but the falsetto harmonies and ad-libs reach up to an E5.
Yes. The verses are very comfortable for a Baritone. The falsetto sections might require practice to keep light, but the song is generally accessible.
It's all about the attitude. Try to smile slightly while singing the brighter parts to lift the soft palate, and keep your body relaxed to avoid a tense, operatic sound.
