What makes Combat Sports by The Vaccines notable?

'Combat Sports' received positive reviews, with publications like NME praising its energetic sound and lyrical wit. It charted within the Top 10 in the UK Albums Chart, reaffirming the band's relevance in the punk rock scene post their initial wave of success. Released on March 30, 2018, 'Combat Sports' marked The Vaccines' fourth studio album, following their 2015 release 'English Graffiti.' At this point, the band was navigating a transition period, having undergone lineup changes and seeking to evolve their sound while maintaining their signature style. This album reflects their effort to combine a more mature perspective with the youthful exuberance that initially brought them fame.

Who is Combat Sports for?

Combat Sports works well if you're into steady mid-tempo sing-alongs, youthful exuberance and introspection and for upbeat gatherings.

How many songs are on Combat Sports?

Combat Sports has 11 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Combat Sports

The Vaccines · 2018

33 min · 11 tracks · punk rock

A lively blend of catchy melodies and punk energy wrapped in sharp, witty lyrics that reflect modern life.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Your Love Is My Favourite Band — This track encapsulates the album's playful yet earnest tone, merging romantic nostalgia with a catchy chorus that showcases the band's knack for storytelling.
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I Can’t Quit — With its driving beat and relatable theme of obsession, this song stands out as an anthem for anyone grappling with desire and uncertainty.
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Put It on a T‐Shirt — The track's clever commentary on popular culture is paired with infectious hooks, making it a prime example of The Vaccines' ability to fuse humor with catchy music.
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Maybe (Luck of the Draw) — This song features a more introspective tone, reflecting on chance and fate while maintaining an upbeat tempo that invites listeners to dance along.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases energetic punk rock with catchy melodies but lacks standout depth or innovation.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a brisk tempo with driving guitar riffs and energetic drumming, establishing a lively opening.
Several songs feature call-and-response vocal patterns, enhancing the sense of engagement and interaction.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo sing-alongs
youthful exuberance and introspection
for upbeat gatherings
quick bursts of catchy hooks

Maybe skip if you

seeking slow, contemplative tracks
prefer lengthy, sprawling albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality and relevance in the band's evolving sound.
Career context: Released on March 30, 2018, 'Combat Sports' marked The Vaccines' fourth studio album, following their 2015 release 'English Graffiti.' At this point, the band was navigating a transition period, having undergone lineup changes and seeking to evolve their sound while maintaining their signature style. This album reflects their effort to combine a more mature perspective with the youthful exuberance that initially brought them fame.
Stylistic neighbors: The Maccabees· Arctic Monkeys· The Wombats