Review
Foster the People's "Paradise State of Mind" is an album that's got people talking - and for good reason. Released in 2024, this fourth studio album marks a bold new direction for the band, one that's heavy on 1970s influences and light on their previous indie-pop sensibilities. Think disco, funk, gospel, and jazz - we're talking Chic, Prince, and all that funky stuff.
The album's lyrics are all about exploring the themes of technology, mortality, and time, with a healthy dose of optimism and self-reflection thrown in for good measure. It's like the band is holding up a mirror to the cultural and social changes of the 1970s and saying, "Hey, things aren't so different now, are they?" Production-wise, the album's all about that analog life, resulting in a warm, organic sound that's a departure from their earlier work.
Now, critics are divided on this one - some love the experimentation, while others think it's a bit superficial. But let's be real, "Paradise State of Mind" has its moments, like the catchy "Take Me Back" and the introspective "Chasing Low Vibrations". It's an album that's all about taking risks and pushing boundaries - and even if it's not a total success, you've got to admire the effort. - Omar
Artist Bio
Foster the People is an indie pop and rock band from Los Angeles, formed in 2009 by Mark Foster after he spent time as a commercial jingle writer. The band broke out in 2010 when "Pumped Up Kicks" became a viral hit, eventually earning them a spot on the charts and leading to a deal with Columbia Records imprint Startime International. They’ve put out four studio albums, experimenting with psychedelic and synth sounds alongside their core California pop vibe, and their work has appeared in everything from commercials to video games. In 2020, they released an EP recorded during the pandemic, reflecting personal and global themes. Fans of groups like MGMT, Passion Pit, and Portugal. The Man will likely find Foster the People’s style familiar.
