There was a time when every band around was The something. It became something of a joke, so much so that English musician Matt Johnson called his group The The (which still confounds some search engines to this day). As a result there was a backlash against 'the' and for a while no self respecting band would have it in their title. Then there was the renaissance, and bands that wanted to sound retro had names starting with 'the'. The thing I'm starting to notice is that it's back again, but as a middle name. I've already reviewed Young The Giant, and read a lot about Tyler, The Creator. Now we have Foster The People. The legend has it that Mark Foster had been calling his band Foster and the People, but it was misheard and he liked the nurturing image the name presented without the 'and'.
But enough about the name. I'm here for the music, and the music is great. Pure unaffected electro pop. Musically the album is as shiny and upbeat as that first warm day of spring. Somehow it carries that warmth with it, like an aural hug. It's a 100% effective mood enhancer. Chock full of danceable beats, toe tapping rhythms and catchy melodies. There's even tracks with whistling, didn't anybody tell mark Foster that nobody whistles anymore?
Lyrically we're not looking at threatening any of the giants like Cohen, Cave, or Waits. These are pop songs, and aren't trying to punch above their weight. Most of the album seems concerned with the interpersonal connections so frequently referred to as 'love', but not in any painful longing sense. It feels very young and innocent in that way. Like the album hasn't had its heart broken yet.
The only downfall of an album of such simple innocent joyous pop, is that there's not much to be gained by deconstructing or overanalysing it. Get yourself a copy of the album, turn it up, and infuse your winter with a little aural warmth. I guarantee you'll enjoy it*.
*not a guarantee
No comments:
Post a Comment