Good Neighbours, Great Music, And A Packed Fillmore—Foster The People Deliver On 2/14
The night began with a personal struggle. Snow blanketed the ground, and I was cold; And the worst part? I quickly realized I was the last person heading to The Fillmore in Minneapolis who had forgotten how challenging it is to find decent parking near a nearly sold-out venue on a Friday night.
Once inside, I secured a decent view of the stage from the bar, befriended the kind staff at the bar (as is tradition ), and took in the opening act in awe. Good Neighbours, a duo hailing from East London, took the stage with an infectious energy that immediately captivated the audience. Comprising friends Scott Verrill and Oli Fox, they began collaborating in neighboring studios, leading to the accidental formation of their band. Their sound is a delightful nod to classic songwriting infused with raucous production, reminiscent of early 2000s bands like Passion Pit and MGMT. Their stage presence was both genuine and electrifying, setting the perfect tone for the evening.
As the venue filled, the crowd transformed into a sea of dancing, beer and cocktail-holding sardines. Smiles, laughter, and clinking glasses filled the space, creating an atmosphere of shared joy and anticipation.
When Foster the People took the stage, the energy soared even higher. Formed in Los Angeles in 2009 by lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Mark Foster, the band quickly gained attention with their breakout hit “Pumped Up Kicks” in 2010. This track, characterized by its catchy melody juxtaposed with dark lyrics, propelled them into the spotlight and led to a record deal with Columbia Records. Their debut album, Torches, released in 2011, showcased their knack for blending indie rock with electronic elements, producing hits like “Helena Beat” and “Houdini.” Over the years, the band has evolved, releasing subsequent albums such as Supermodel in 2014 and Sacred Hearts Club in 2017, each reflecting their growth and experimentation with different sounds. Despite lineup changes, with Mark Foster remaining as the constant driving force, their commitment to delivering high-energy performances has never wavered. That night at The Fillmore, they delivered a dynamic set, seamlessly blending their classic hits with newer material, keeping the audience engaged and dancing throughout.
As the final notes faded, the venue was slow to clear out. It was as if the people had been fostered in the best way possible, reluctant to let go of the night’s magic. The camaraderie, the music, and the shared experience lingered, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended.
