Supermodel (2014) - Foster the People

Released on March 18, 2014, Supermodel is Foster the People's second studio album, following the massive success of their debut Torches. This album sees the band pushing their sound in new directions, leaning into global musical influences and a more guitar-driven approach while exploring themes of consumerism, societal pressure, and personal disillusionment. Frontman Mark Foster and British producer Paul Epworth (known for his work with Adele and Florence + The Machine) co-produced the record, crafting a sonic landscape that blends indie pop with psychedelic flourishes and world music elements.

Tracklist:

1. Are You What You Want to Be?
2. Ask Yourself
3. Coming of Age
4. Nevermind
5. Pseudologia Fantastica
6. The Angelic Welcome of Mr. Jones
7. Best Friend
8. A Beginner's Guide to Destroying the Moon
9. Goats in Trees
10. The Truth
11. Fire Escape

Thematically, Supermodel is more introspective and critical compared to Torches. Mark Foster uses the album as a vehicle to express his frustrations with the commercialization of art and the hollow pursuit of fame. The album’s title itself is a metaphor for the glamorous yet often superficial image that society idolizes. Even the album cover—an evocative painting by artist Young & Sick—depicts a model surrounded by a chaotic crowd, reinforcing its commentary on consumer culture and the loss of identity in the modern world.

The album opens with "Are You What You Want to Be?", a vibrant and percussive track infused with African-inspired rhythms. Its upbeat energy contrasts with the lyrical content, which questions whether people live authentically or simply follow societal expectations. "Ask Yourself" follows, continuing this introspective theme by challenging listeners to reflect on their life choices and the pursuit of happiness in a consumer-driven world.

The lead single, "Coming of Age," is one of the album's most accessible and nostalgic tracks. With its shimmering guitars and anthemic chorus, it captures the bittersweet transition from youth to adulthood. The song’s reflective lyrics and warm production make it a standout, resonating with anyone who has faced the challenges of growing up and self-discovery.

"Nevermind" takes a more experimental turn, blending dreamy soundscapes with a driving bassline. Lyrically, it reflects a sense of disillusionment and the desire to escape societal expectations. Meanwhile, "Pseudologia Fantastica" dives headfirst into psychedelic rock territory. Its swirling, otherworldly production echoes the track’s themes of escapism and the fine line between reality and illusion.

"The Angelic Welcome of Mr. Jones" serves as a brief, haunting interlude that transitions into "Best Friend," one of the album’s catchiest and most upbeat moments. Despite its playful, funk-driven sound, the track addresses darker themes of addiction and the struggle to save someone from self-destruction.

"A Beginner's Guide to Destroying the Moon" is one of the album’s most aggressive and experimental tracks. With its distorted vocals and heavy percussion, the song tackles the tension between authenticity and corporate greed, echoing the album’s overarching critique of consumer culture.

"Goats in Trees" slows the pace with a more acoustic, reflective sound. Its melancholy tone and poetic lyrics offer a contemplative break, exploring themes of emotional detachment and loneliness. "The Truth" blends electronic textures with a hypnotic groove, while the closing track, "Fire Escape," is a stripped-down acoustic ballad. Its raw vulnerability contrasts sharply with the rest of the album’s layered production, leaving listeners with a sense of quiet reflection and unresolved questions.

Supermodel may not have replicated the commercial success of Torches, but it stands as an ambitious and thought-provoking record. It showcases Foster the People’s willingness to take risks and explore deeper themes, moving beyond the catchy hooks that initially brought them fame. The album's mixture of sonic experimentation and social commentary makes it a compelling chapter in their discography.