Dutch / Flemish indie rock formation Vampire Boyfriend write songs about “blood, sex and satanic self-care rituals”, according to the group’s main songwriter Janine van Osta. 

That may sound a bit crude, but ultimately, that’s precisely the point. Vampire Boyfriend – in its origin story – packs contrasting elements together with infectious irreverence: the pink glitter notebook with boy band stickers and the Book of the Dead are both part of the inventory.

With Mitchell Quitz (Library Card), Arno Geers (FRAMAN) and Sophie Reekers (So-Fi) in the ranks, Vampire Boyfriend lace together fictional horror kitsch storytelling and autobiographical beats with rare aplomb. 

Songs that, at times, feel as if they drive a stake right into your heart, but ultimately hold your hand to guide you through the darkest abyss.