Though operating in the 21st century, Foster the People is in many ways a vintage new wave group — and that’s a compliment. “Coming of Age,” like the group’s 2011 smash “Pumped Up Kicks” and other material from debut album “Torches,” boasts the same kinetic, big-beat catchiness and effortless melodies as many ’80s MTV hits, with highly produced hooks coming from all directions. The big difference this time is a more prominent guitar, which riffs into the song’s opening and accents each chorus on its way to a bona fide solo break after the first refrain. Frontman Mark Foster sounds casually assured throughout, bolstered by soulful backing vocals and a smooth ebb and flow that keeps the tune surging. “Even when I’m wrong, I tend to think I’m right,” Foster laments. Despite that sentiment, he certainly exercises some correct musical instincts on this calling card for Foster the People’s sophomore album.
