6/10

 

Transgressive | 05.11.12

 

First single from FoalsÔÇÖ long awaited third album, Holy Fire, due February 2013, is something quite startling.┬á Opening with a reverb laden guitar loop and syncopated beats from wood blocks, the piece has a groovy, Afrobeat feel.┬á But then comes the build up, rising notes and a pulsing bassline that culminate in an explosive chorus with screeching synths.┬á Frontman Yannis wails, a la Kasabian, that he needs ÔÇ£space!ÔÇØ and then out thrashes this crazy, textbook Muse, heavy guitar riff.┬á Quite a shock after the bandÔÇÖs previously bleak sound. The video features trendy indie kids writhing around in warehouses and skateparks; no more a shoegazer, Yannis seems to try to flirt with the camera, and the mass appeal of this song suggests he also wants a fling with mainstream radio. Confusing but catchy.

 

Rosey Brown