Foster The People - Paradise State of Mind - album review

By Olivia Kendall.

Foster The People are a band adored by millions, and for many good reasons. Having released three incredible albums already, with songs like ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ and ‘Sit Next To Me’ amassing numerous listens on various streaming platforms, fans of indie pop have been looking forward to what new material is to come from this groovy duo. I can confirm that Paradise State Of Mind, releasing on 16th August 2024, is worth the wait in every possible way.

Paradise State Of Mind opens with ‘See You In The Afterlife’ – the first time listening to this caused me to bop my head without realising it. It sets a preliminary vibe for the whole album with fun synths and an exceptionally funky bassline. You’ll notice that synths are a major tool for this album’s creation; they tie everything together with a juxtaposing nostalgic and futuristic sensation. 

The second song is ‘Lost In Space’; the first of three already-released singles. The different electronic sounds in this song almost emanate the feeling of drifting through space in a rocket ship. The lyrics explore the idea of losing the force that guides you forward through life – maybe a person – leaving you lost and untethered to find meaning once more. Following this song is ‘Take Me Back’, another single which takes a slower, relaxed approach, exuding a sense of charm. ‘Take Me Back’ is about returning to the innocent and carefree nature of childhood, learning once more how to feel joy as an adult. 

Halfway through the album is the track sharing the album title; ‘Paradise State Of Mind’. Singer Mark Foster confidently shows his vocal prowess in this song with some impressive harmonies that you can hear especially well in the last third. Following this, ‘Glitchzig’ brings some sounds reminiscent of the 80s, with a chirpy opening, a very catchy chorus and an instrumental brass outro. The third single, ‘Chasing Low Vibrations’, is my personal favourite from the album – it has a serene and whimsical sound, and the lyrics tell a relatable story of change, reflection, and trying not to overthink the future.

Paradise State Of Mind ends with ‘A Diamond To Be Born’, which begins as quiet and understated. About a minute in, it proceeds to explode with life and rhythm, before eventually transforming into an elegant and beautiful string section and ending with piano. The song seems to go through different stages of a life cycle, much like all creatures on Earth – I found this to be a perfect way to bring the album to a close.

I was overjoyed listening to Paradise State Of Mind, and I’m sure that fans and new listeners globally will be able to enjoy this album. It’s easy to dance to and evolves on the band’s signature sound whilst keeping a lot of their original flair.