Foals bring their “Holy Fire” to Turner Hall

British indie rock band Foals has yet to reach its musical career peak, but its new album Holy Fire is accelerating that upward trajectory faster than ever. The LP, their third after 2008’s Antidotes and 2010’s Total Life Forever, revisits the alt/punk/dance sound of their debut, but blends in some slower, grungier elements. Along with the gracefulness and fluidity Foals adopted on Total Life Forever (although without the spacious, atmospheric sound of that record), the resulting album is a cohesive mix of what they’ve done before and what they’re hoping to do next.

It’s that blending which makes Holy Fire such a strong record. Lead vocalist Yannis Philippakis described the album in a Pitchfork interview as “a myriad of colors rather than shades of the same.” It’s an approach that shows its worth. Whether the album’s leaning toward high-energy melodies or dirtier rock tones, the collection feels comprehensive and complete. The album’s standout songs – “Inhaler,” “My Number” and “Milk and Black Spiders” – are well-produced and emotionally charged, pieces that demonstrate the band’s evolving sounds and desire to take their show to the next level.

They’ll take another step tonight (Sunday, May 19) at Turner Hall Ballroom. The setlist will likely be dominated by Holy Fire tracks – although I hope to hear “Spanish Sahara,” “Olympic Airwaves” and “Red Socks Pugie” – but whatever they decide, Foals rarely disappoints, with a live show that is always dominated by a distinctive energy that appeals to a wide variety of music lovers.

The Foals make their way into Milwaukee on Sunday, May 19, at Turner Hall.  Alt-rock band Surfer Blood will open, with special guest Blondfire making an appearance as well.  Doors open at 7 p.m.  Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here, or by calling 414-286-3205.