Album review - FOALS // Part 1 Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost

On a blustery Wednesday morning, I fought my way to campus, every step a struggle against the wind. The driving force that got me to my 9am by the skin of my teeth was a first listen to the new Foals album: Part 1 Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost. The title resonates heavily amongst my peers during dissertation season. The concept of it being merely “Part one” immediately caught my attention. Before my very own fingerprints had impressed on the play button, I felt excited that there is yet MORE to come. Give me more Yannis, let me indulge in Foals.

The album commences with Yannis’ voice sailing through a choral backing in Moonlight. Exits teased me with a discordant, jolting piano riff before a punchy drum beat enters the fray. I’ve not been overwhelmed at this point. However, I’ve always enjoyed the build-up in Foals tracks. Music to wank to? I’ve not cum yet…

My ears pricked up during White Onions. This. Got. Me. Going. If you’re walking into a lecture late you might as well go in with the attitude this song has. It reminded me of the Foals tracks (Two steps, Cassius) that got me so jacked up in the past. ENERGY. This was sustained into Degrees, which was telling me to party. Stop right there on the zebra crossing and show the traffic ya best two-step! Syrups comes in with a cool and confident bassline. (I guess most basslines are cool and confident, but you catch my drift). Just over half way through, the track evolved from a slower groove to a more urgent pace. Yannis almost chants through this in a way which reminds me of a certain Mr Albarn (of the Damon kind).

The next moment for me - and it was a big moment - was the track Sunday.  I was immediately reminded of The Verve, that definitive 90’s sound, and the lyrics “we got youth to spend” a real bittersweet symphony of a tune. As the track picked up speed, my mind immediately darted to Born Slippy by Underworld. This song did a lot for me, possibly because I’m a sucker for a big, nostalgic anthem. In a later fact check, I found Philippakis said, “I wanted it to have these overtones of the ghosts of thousands or people raving in the 90’s”. That feeling certainly resonates in this tune. Of course, I wasn’t raving in the 90’s. I have only lived it vicariously through Trainspotting and the This is England 90 series. Donning my best three-stripe, the perfect suit for any occasion – a tracksuit. I digress.

I have finally arrived at my seminar building. I treat myself and take the lift, staring into the mirror for a few seconds to check how utterly blasted I’ve been by the wind. Silence in my headphones gives me time to ponder: Is it going to be a favourite of the Foals albums? Not yet, but this is only the first listen. There’s been cowbell in On the Luna, it’s been more electronic, synthier and the dance tracks are what they have nailed in this album. Possibly less walkable, definitely more danceable. I just hope this is the warm up for part 2.

My first listen, my first review. But don’t take my word, give it a bloody spin for yourself.

Slider & the Goose