This time last year, Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks”hit the alternative music scene in a big way. The song, with its sweet whistling and instantly addictive bass line, couldn’t help but bring memories of another iconic indie classic, Peter Bjorn and John’s “Young Folks.” Almost instantly, comparisons were drawn, not just there, but with many others proclaiming them the next MGMT. Their reputation spread like wildfire, due in large part to their popularity on music blogs and performances at South by Southwest. Soon, they were playing sold out shows in the US and Australia, all of this without ever releasing an album.
Foster the People are Mark Foster, drummer Mark Pontius and bassist Cubbie Fink. Formed in 2009, the California trio saw the release of Torches, their long anticipated first album, this week. With so much hype surrounding one song, (“Pumped up Kicks” reached number four on Billboard’s Alternative song chart), it seems almost unfeasible that Torches is as good as it is. These are pop songs that serve as the perfect soundtrack to summer. They’re catchy, almost addictive in the way they stick, and incredibly fun to move to.
With that said, it’s often surprising to find how well crafted and articulate the music in Torches is. “Pumped Up Kicks” is an obvious and perfect example of this. It’s low-fi synth and 60’s infused sound disguises a darker message, one of a psychotic and murderous teenager that’s coming after you. It’s a feat managed by many of the songs on Torches. To feel incredibly light, urging you to dance out of your chair, and disguising the poignancy and eloquence of Foster’s lyrics.
Foster the People dance in and out of several genres. Heavy use of synthesizers and percussion sometimes makes them sound very much a product of their time, while at other moments, their sound harkens to something a little older. Everything on the album is easily distinguishable, however, as Foster the People. Foster’s falsetto becomes a quick trademark, tying all sounds together. A fast favorite, “I Would Do Anything For You,” utilizes his voice as a major feature. Beautiful in its simplicity, the chorus croons, “Oohlala love I’ve fallen in love,” echoing my sentiments exactly. I’ve fallen in love with Foster the People. Their sound is infectious that way.
Foster the People’s Torches is on sale now. New U.S. Summer tour dates have been announced.
Sarah McBride is a self-proclaimed pop-culture enthusiast. Her thoughts on music, film and life can be found at sarahism.com. You can follow her on twitter @sarahism.