ALBUM REVIEW: Foals Retrace Their Roots on ‘Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost Part 1’

The Brits talk to their past while exploring new territory.

On their fifth LP, Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost Part 1, British indie rockers Foals explore new territory while getting reacquainted with their roots.

After 2015’s What Went Down, the band appeared to be moving towards a heavier, chord-driven sound. This record, however, builds on Foals’ math rock origins, with intertwined guitar and bass licks that are as fun to follow as they are danceable. Songs like “White Onions” and “In Degrees” are sure to be welcome additions to the band’s live set, which is known for its energy and intensity.

This is an album full of callbacks to previous Foals tropes; but at the same time, new soundscapes and approaches to songwriting are introduced. The result is an album that shows that Foals are still capable of growth, but they haven’t forgotten where they come from.

And there’s more! Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost Part 2 arrives this fall.

Score: 🌕🌕🌕🌕/5