Foster The People | Paradise State of Mind Review

by Bea Willis

Paradise State of Mind by Foster The People is a reawakening of the band’s creative spirit, capturing the exuberance and joy of a time when music was a beacon of defiance and celebration amid social and political turmoil. Released on August 16, 2024, under Atlantic Records, this album is a vibrant concoction of pop, rock, and the infectious sounds of the late ’70s filtered through the band’s unique lens.

From the beginning, Foster The People has been known for their ability to craft catchy, earworm-worthy pop tracks that are as memorable as they are musically intricate. Their 2011 debut, Torches, set the world on fire with hits like “Pumped Up Kicks” and “Helena Beat,” earning them critical acclaim and a fervent fanbase. However, as the years passed, their subsequent albums, while ambitious, lost some of the spark that made them stand out in the crowded indie-pop landscape. That is, until now.

Paradise State of Mind, produced by Mark Foster and Isom Innis, signals a rejuvenation for the band. It’s a record that feels alive with the energy and creativity that defined their early work while still showing their evolution as a band. The album draws heavily from the disco, funk, and jazz influences of the late ’70s—a period that Foster describes as “a beautiful moment in time, when these different styles of music were cross-referencing each other.” This cross-pollination of genres is evident throughout the album, which seamlessly blends these retro sounds with modern pop sensibilities, creating something that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

The album opens with “See You In The Afterlife,” a track that perfectly sets the tone with its psychedelic synths, funky guitar parts, and infectious beat. It pulls the listener into a world where joy and defiance go hand in hand. “Lost In Space” follows with an irresistible chorus and shows their ability to craft musically compelling pop songs.

Tracks like “Take Me Back” and “Feed Me” showcase the band’s mastery of groove and rhythm. “Take Me Back” is a groovy, R&B-infused track with a slick vocal delivery that makes it impossible not to move as the ethereal vocals swim in reverb. Meanwhile, “Feed Me” is a playful, synth-laden number that prances around the room with its jaunty rhythm and magnetic callback vocals. The productions and bass line adds richness to the track, making it one of the album’s standout groove moments.

One of the album’s most intriguing aspects is its ability to evoke the carefree happiness of disco while maintaining a modern, almost futuristic edge. This balance is perfectly captured in tracks like “The Holy Shangri-La” and “Chasing Low Vibrations,” where the band uses synths and electronic elements to create an otherworldly atmosphere. “The Holy Shangri-La” has a gorgeous orchestration of trickling synths, proving that Foster The People can still deliver funky, catchy melodies regardless of the tone they choose to explore. The production, while polished, sometimes veers into overly glossy territory, which may leave some listeners yearning for a bit more grit and rawness.

Paradise State of Mind is a record that reestablishes the band’s relevance. The album’s infectious energy and creative fearlessness make it a joy to listen to, and for fans who have been with the band since the beginning, it’s a reminder of why they fell in love with Foster The People in the first place.

Paradise State of Mind

Release Date: August 16, 2024

Label: Atlantic Records

About the author

Bea Willis

Author

With an unwavering passion for music that began at the tender age of five, I embarked on a journey of self-expression through the piano, later expanding my repertoire to the guitar and the art of singing. As a seasoned performer in cozy coffee shops and harmonious choir ensembles, I've immersed myself in the diverse tapestry of musical genres, seeking to uncover the intricate qualities that strike a chord within our souls.

Beyond my personal experiences, my journalistic pursuits have led me to explore the stories and inspirations behind the melodies we hold dear. As a music journalist, I aim to delve into the heart of each composition, shedding light on the creative minds that have shaped the soundscape of our lives.

In my downtime, you can find me serenading my loyal canine companion with heartfelt tunes on the guitar or indulging in retail therapy to enhance my ever-growing wardrobe. Songwriting holds a special place in my heart, and I yearn for the day when I can share my creative talents with the world. Until then, my passion for uncovering the emotional power within music continues to drive my insightful reviews and analyses, as I journey through the rich landscape of melodies that move us.