Foals are a British indie rock band formed in Oxford in 2005. Their unique sound is characterized by math rock-inspired rhythms, intricate guitar work, and driving dance beats. The band has gone through several lineup changes over the years, but founding members Yannis Philippakis (vocals, guitar) and Jack Bevan (drums) have remained consistent.
Foals have released six studio albums to date, with their debut, “Antidotes,” released in 2008. The band’s subsequent releases have shown a growing musical maturity and experimentation with different styles, such as the atmospheric and introspective “Total Life Forever” and the dark, synth-driven “Holy Fire.”
One of the band’s most popular songs is “My Number” from their 2013 album “Holy Fire.” The song features a catchy guitar riff and an infectious dance beat, making it a staple of indie rock dance floors around the world. Other notable tracks include “Spanish Sahara,” a haunting ballad that builds to an epic climax, and “Inhaler,” a driving rocker that showcases Philippakis’ impressive guitar skills.
Foals are known for their dynamic live shows, which often feature extended instrumental jams and Philippakis climbing and jumping off of various structures on stage. The band has received critical acclaim for their innovative sound and energetic performances, cementing their place as one of the most influential indie rock acts of the 21st century.
# 10 – Hummer
“Hummer” by Foals is a high-energy, indie rock anthem that showcases the band’s unique blend of post-punk and math rock. The song features driving rhythms, intricate guitar riffs, and frontman Yannis Philippakis’ distinctive vocals. Lyrically, “Hummer” is an enigmatic exploration of the human condition, with lines like “Our hearts are heavy/We need relief” conveying a sense of longing and desperation. The song builds to a cathartic climax with Philippakis’ repeated cries of “Can’t you see?/It’s all for you.” “Hummer” remains one of Foals’ most beloved and iconic tracks, and is a must-listen for fans of the genre.
# 9 – What Went Down
“What Went Down” by Foals is a hard-hitting rock anthem with intense instrumentation and explosive vocals. The song features heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums that build to a climax before crashing down into a quieter bridge section. The lyrics are cryptic and introspective, exploring themes of self-doubt and regret. Lead singer Yannis Philippakis delivers an emotive performance, showcasing his range from softer, more vulnerable moments to raw, primal screams. “What Went Down” is a standout track from Foals’ fourth studio album of the same name and has become a fan favorite at their live shows.
# 8 – In Degrees
“In Degrees” by Foals is an energetic and upbeat track that blends elements of indie rock, dance, and electronic music. The song features pulsing beats, groovy basslines, and catchy synth melodies that create a hypnotic and infectious rhythm. Lead singer Yannis Philippakis delivers powerful and emotive vocals, singing about the overwhelming and all-consuming nature of desire and passion. The lyrics touch on themes of obsession, addiction, and the intense heat of physical attraction. Overall, “In Degrees” is a captivating and dynamic song that showcases Foals’ ability to blend genres and create music that is both emotionally charged and danceable.
# 7 – Late Night
“Late Night” is a track from Foals’ fourth studio album, “Holy Fire”. The song is an epic and dreamy synthpop ballad with lush soundscapes and emotive vocals. It features a dynamic build-up with intricate percussion and guitar riffs, gradually adding layers of synths and vocals until reaching a climactic finish. The lyrics are introspective and poignant, exploring themes of loneliness and self-discovery. “Late Night” received critical acclaim upon release and is considered one of the band’s most iconic songs. It has been praised for its atmospheric production and poignant lyrics, as well as for its ability to convey a sense of emotional vulnerability and catharsis.
# 6 – Cassius
“Cassius” by Foals is a dynamic, post-punk inspired track that showcases the band’s unique blend of intricate guitar work and driving rhythms. The song’s opening riff immediately hooks the listener in, while frontman Yannis Philippakis’ powerful vocals add an extra layer of intensity. Lyrically, “Cassius” explores the themes of identity and self-discovery, with lines like “I’m just trying to find my way” conveying a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The song builds to an explosive chorus that is sure to get audiences moving. “Cassius” is a standout track from Foals’ debut album, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
# 5 – Exits
“Exits” is a 2019 single by British rock band Foals. The song is a powerful and eclectic blend of indie rock, electronic and dance music elements, featuring intricate and punchy guitar riffs, groovy basslines and driving drum beats, layered with catchy synth hooks and frontman Yannis Philippakis’ dynamic and emotional vocals. The lyrics touch on themes of isolation, anxiety and confusion in the face of a rapidly changing world, with references to technology and social media. “Exits” showcases Foals’ ability to experiment and evolve their sound while maintaining their signature intensity and passion, making it a standout track from their discography.
# 4 – Mountain At My Gates
“Mountain At My Gates” by Foals is an anthemic and driving track that builds on a foundation of propulsive drumbeats and distorted guitar riffs. The song features a catchy and memorable chorus, with lead singer Yannis Philippakis belting out lines about overcoming obstacles and facing down challenges. The lyrics are evocative and poetic, touching on themes of resilience, determination, and self-discovery. The track also showcases the band’s dynamic and intricate instrumentation, with layered guitars and atmospheric synths adding depth and texture to the driving rhythm. Overall, “Mountain At My Gates” is a powerful and uplifting song that captures the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity.
# 3 – This Orient
“This Orient” by Foals is a vibrant and energetic indie rock track that blends intricate guitar work, driving rhythms, and catchy melodies. The song’s Middle Eastern-inspired riffs give it a unique flavor that sets it apart from other tracks in the band’s discography. Frontman Yannis Philippakis’ soaring vocals perfectly complement the upbeat instrumentals, while the lyrics explore themes of longing and wanderlust, with lines like “I’m dreaming of a white horizon” painting a vivid picture of adventure and escape. “This Orient” is a standout track from Foals’ second album, and has remained a fan favorite since its release.
# 2 – My Number
“My Number” by Foals is a catchy and energetic track that blends elements of indie rock, dance, and pop music. The song features a driving rhythm section, with pulsing basslines and propulsive drumbeats providing the backbone for the infectious melody. Lead singer Yannis Philippakis delivers a memorable and hook-laden chorus, singing about the thrill of pursuing someone and the excitement of the chase. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, with a sense of urgency and anticipation that is reflected in the song’s upbeat tempo and danceable groove. Overall, “My Number” is a fun and upbeat track that showcases Foals’ ability to create infectious and catchy pop-infused indie rock.
# 1 – Balloons
“Balloons” is a track from Foals’ debut album “Antidotes” released in 2008. The song is an energetic and upbeat indie rock anthem that showcases the band’s unique blend of math rock and dance-punk influences. With its driving rhythms and catchy guitar riffs, “Balloons” is a perfect example of Foals’ ability to create music that is both highly rhythmic and highly melodic. The song’s lyrics are somewhat abstract and surreal, but convey a sense of youthful energy and excitement, as the singer declares, “I’m filled with energy and a lust for life.” Overall, “Balloons” is a standout track from Foals’ impressive debut album, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
