In July 2008, during the height of their early career, Vampire Weekend performed "A-Punk" at the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago. This live recording was significant as it showcased the band shortly after the release of their self-titled debut album, "Vampire Weekend," which came out in January of the same year. The album garnered critical acclaim for its innovative blend of rock and world music influences, helping to define the indie pop sound of the late 2000s. By the time of this performance, they were gaining a rapidly growing fanbase, and "A-Punk" had become a breakout single, noted for its catchy hooks and vibrant energy. The Pitchfork Festival performance was emblematic of their energetic live presence and marked a pivotal moment in their early success as they began to rise in prominence within the music industry.