Combat Sports, released in 2018, marked a return to the Vaccines' signature blend of urgent indie rock and anthemic choruses. The album eschewed the more experimental elements of its predecessor in favor of a more direct and propulsive sound.
- The album was produced by Daniel Pujol, who had previously worked with bands like The Faint and IDLES. It was the first album to feature touring guitarist Timothy Lanham as an official member. Combat Sports reached number 21 on the UK Albums Chart.
- The album was preceded by the singles "I Can Only Whisper" and "Your Love Is My Favourite Record." The band toured extensively in support of the album throughout 2018 and 2019.
- Critics noted the album's cohesive sound and its embrace of the band's earlier, more straightforward rock leanings. The album's title, Combat Sports, reflects a theme of struggle and resilience explored in the lyrics.
Hailing from London, The Vaccines are a rock band known for their energetic, guitar-driven sound. Combat Sports arrived during a period of flux for the band, following their 2015 album English Graffiti.
Tracklist
