Andrew VanWyngarden, the lead vocalist of MGMT, returned to Wesleyan University for his 20th reunion this past weekend and delighted attendees with a performance of the band’s iconic track “Kids.” The event took place at an informal gathering organized by his classmates and current students at West College, marking a celebratory moment for the Class of 2005.
The performance echoed an earlier viral moment from last December, when footage of VanWyngarden and fellow band member Ben Goldwasser playing an early version of “Kids” back in 2003 gained significant attention online. While Goldwasser was not present for this reunion performance, VanWyngarden energized the crowd by enthusiastically engaging with his former classmates, yelling, “Where’s the Class of ’05?” and highlighting their special connection.
This reunion not only offered a nostalgic blast from the past but also tied together MGMT’s legacy with the iconic events at Wesleyan University, including their nostalgic performance during Zonker Harris Day, which celebrated psychedelic music and culture. The members performed live renditions of their engaging tracks, including an early version of “Money to Burn” and a cover of Talking Heads’ “This Must Be the Place.”
Adding to the excitement, MGMT’s latest album, “Loss of Life,” showcases their ongoing evolution as artists and was released in February 2024. This continued creativity suggests that the band is still vibrant and relevant, ready to inspire both nostalgic fans and new listeners alike.
Overall, VanWyngarden’s return to Wesleyan and his performance serves as a hopeful reminder of the lasting impact of music and shared experiences among generations.