You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
Recommended Album Of The Month<br />
Foals – Holy Fire<br />
Words by Sophie Leahy<br />
Despite being taught not to judge a book by its cover, it is human nature to<br />
form an opinion upon just hearing a name or seeing an image. So when British<br />
indie rockers Foals release an album with a title like Holy Fire, it’s natural for<br />
listeners to expect something sprawling and big.<br />
Foals have made a point of defying expectations<br />
during their time in the spotlight. Their sound is one<br />
that can truly be described as innovative and unique,<br />
intelligent and arty Brit Rock. They made their mark with<br />
deceivingly simple guitar riffs, humming bass lines and<br />
angular beats, yet their debut album, 2008’s Antidotes,<br />
strangely left off their biggest early single ‘Hummer’.<br />
Cryptic lyrics appealed to the left-of-centre crowds, while<br />
their joyful energy found a mark with the masses. Their<br />
second album, Total Life Forever (2010) was a strong<br />
follow up, serving up a collection of danceable indie rock.<br />
But with this, their third album, Foals deliver exactly<br />
what is expected: a big sound, a big production, and an<br />
album worthy of its name. Holy Fire (2013) confirms their<br />
status as festival headliners, with big bursts of energy<br />
scattered throughout. Beginning with the aptly-named<br />
track ‘Prelude’, it slowly builds, layer upon layer, until<br />
bursting into the scattering riffs of ‘Inhaler’. Lead singer<br />
Yannis Philippakis brings an urgency to the track, calling<br />
out over the booming chords and steady beats.<br />
From there, the mood lightens with their most<br />
mainstream work yet – single ‘My Number’. This is the<br />
lightest, brightest, catchiest track on the album and<br />
also one of the best. The album moves on, from the<br />
chaotic noise in ‘Providence’, the drama of ‘Out Of The<br />
Woods’ and the U2-esque chorus of ‘Bad Habit.’ This is<br />
a mature, gritty, yet easy collection. It is an album to be<br />
pumped through the speakers, a record that demands to<br />
be heard. Galloping drums, rolling bass, punchy riffs and<br />
Philippakis’ rounded voice require volume.<br />
With Holy Fire, Foals have crafted a smouldering,<br />
smoking-hot and, yes, big record. What you expect is<br />
what you receive.<br />
jetstar.com<br />
9
Change language