What makes This Orient by Foals notable?

The album's lead single, Spanish Sahara, received critical acclaim and significant airplay, contributing to Foals' rise in popularity. This track was later remixed by Chad Valley, further expanding its reach and impact within the indie music community. This Orient marked Foals' transition from their debut album, Antidotes, showcasing their evolution toward a more experimental sound. Released in 2010, it followed the band's breakthrough period and set the stage for their subsequent albums, solidifying their position in the UK alternative rock scene.

How many songs are on This Orient?

This Orient has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

This Orient

Foals · 2010

7 min · 2 tracks · alternative rock

A pulsating blend of intricate guitar riffs and danceable rhythms that intertwine art rock with an experimental edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

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This Orient — This track is a standout opener that encapsulates the album's intricate rhythmic patterns and dynamic shifts, establishing a distinct atmospheric presence.
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Spanish Sahara (Chad Valley remix) — The remix transforms the original into a lush soundscape, emphasizing its haunting melodies while showcasing Foals' ability to adapt and reimagine their work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong elements but lacks the depth and cohesion of a full album.

What we noticed

The track 'This Orient' features a driving rhythm with layered guitars that build intensity throughout its duration.
The remix of 'Spanish Sahara' introduces electronic elements and a slower tempo, contrasting with the original's rock foundation.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases a deliberate shift towards a more experimental sound for the band.
Themes: pulsating rhythms· experimental soundscapes· UK alternative evolution
Career context: This Orient marked Foals' transition from their debut album, Antidotes, showcasing their evolution toward a more experimental sound. Released in 2010, it followed the band's breakthrough period and set the stage for their subsequent albums, solidifying their position in the UK alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Everything Everything· Bloc Party· Local Natives