Torches
by Foster the People
  • Record Label: Columbia
  • Release Date: May 23, 2011
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 20
  3. Negative: 1 out of 20
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  1. AllMusic
    Dec 19, 2011
    60
    Burning with a hot track intensity somewhere in between early evening rave-up and late-night club afterglow, Torches is a beacon of melodic dance-pop love.
  2. Mojo
    Nov 22, 2011
    60
    Scratch beneath the glossy surface of Torches and beneath the gurgles, stutters and hands-aloft choruses lies an album with a disappointing lack of substance. [Aug. 2011, p. 94]
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  3. Drowned In Sound
    Jun 28, 2011
    60
    The first half of Torches is its collective zenith, and although things pick up towards the end of the album by the strategically placed 'Pumped Up Kicks', you can't shake the feeling that Foster has simply stretched the party vibe over as many songs as he can before the momentum runs out.
  5. NOW Magazine
    Jun 14, 2011
    60
    His songs are structured around one big, hummable hook and not much else. The L.A. band has a knack for that, but we can't help wondering if they have anything more sophisticated in store. We'd rather have the next MGMT than the next Maroon 5.
  6. Under The Radar
    Jun 8, 2011
    60
    When the same "music is the message" trick is attempted in the newer material, the law of diminishing returns quickly kicks into place. [May 2011, p.78]
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  7. Sputnikmusic
    May 24, 2011
    60
    For better or for worse, Torches is a product of the here and now, and who can be mad at Foster the People for seizing it for all its worth? Get it while it lasts, boys.
  8. The Guardian
    Jun 24, 2011
    40
    For the most part, Torches sounds like a faux-edgy take on the likes of Maroon 5 – not the reconfiguring of soft rock the likes of Gayngs and Destroyer have attempted, but easy-listening, in-one-ear-out-the-other drivetime pop, with synth sounds du jour instead of palm-muted guitars.

Awards & Rankings

34
#34 Most Discussed Album of 2011
41
#41 Most Shared Album of 2011

User Reviews

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User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 222 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 206 out of 222
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 222
  3. Negative: 4 out of 222
  1. destroya1art
    Apr 7, 2012
    10
    when i heard "pumped up kicks" i liked the song yet when it hit mainstream status the song got really annoying and i felt Foster The Peoplewhen i heard "pumped up kicks" i liked the song yet when it hit mainstream status the song got really annoying and i felt Foster The People was a one hit wonder band, and.... I WAS WRONG! the album, is fantastic! and its kind of a shame that some of the BEST songs aren't even on the ORIGINAL album. many people heard pumped up kicks and thought that was the best song, NO! it is not, its their most popular but best? not even close. i loved the album, the songs are catchy, and really well done. its safe too say most of these songs are about love. KEY TRACKS: "Call it what you want", "Waste", "Helena Beat", "Don't Stop", "Houdini", "i would do anything for you" EXTRA KEY TRACKS (NOT ON ORIGINAL ALBUM): "Love", "Broken Jaw" NOTE!!! Broken Jaw in MY OPINION is THEIR best song, seriously listen to this one....… Full Review »
  2. chancewellnitz
    Jun 21, 2011
    5
    I've never seen so many people get defensive over an album. People are getting nasty, critiquing reviews instead of the album itself. TheI've never seen so many people get defensive over an album. People are getting nasty, critiquing reviews instead of the album itself. The album is nothing special. It's got catchiness in spades but it's lacking lyrically and in originality. Foster The People seem so caught up in "capturing the sound of the times" that they forget to be their own band. Do yourself a favor and download "Pumped Up Kicks," "Houdini," and "Warrant." These are the three strongest songs on the album. And, if you're in the mood for a New Radicals rip-off, download "I Would Do Anything For You." I was really looking forward to this album after hearing "Pumped Up Kicks" last year, but this is one of the biggest disappointments of 2011.… Full Review »
  3. MCRR
    Apr 4, 2015
    7
    Amiable 'new age indie-rock' offering charm and popular appeal. Indeed a rather distinguished album in that it rolls along gaining more favourAmiable 'new age indie-rock' offering charm and popular appeal. Indeed a rather distinguished album in that it rolls along gaining more favour after each track idles by at a happy, melodic and sustained pace. Given this album is so 'light' Sounding, a thoroughly enjoyable addition to the palate.… Full Review »
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