Foster The People made a much awaited return to Austin on October 3rd, 2024, for a sold out show at Emo’s, and the anticipation from the audience was undeniable. After all, it’s been over a decade since Torches introduced “Pumped Up Kicks” to the world, and nearly six years since their last tour, but the band has continued to evolve by pushing boundaries with every new album. Their stop in Austin for a special ACL Nights show was a perfect reflection of that journey—equal parts nostalgia and innovation.
As the crowd settled in, the atmosphere was already buzzing. When the lights dimmed and Mark Foster and Isom Innis stepped onto the stage, the energy in the room skyrocketed. They kicked off the evening with “Feed Me,” the newest from their psychedelic funk-inspired record, Paradise State of Mind. Right from the start, Foster’s unmistakable voice had the audience singing along to every word, and it was clear that the years have only sharpened the band’s live performance. The fan favorite “Helena Beat” and newest single “Lost In Space” immediately followed, setting the tone for what would be an electrifying night.
The setlist was a fantastic mix of 2010s tracks and fresh material, keeping fans on their toes. Songs like “Call It What You Want” and “Houdini” brought back memories of the band’s early days, but it was the newer songs like “Glitchzig” and “Take Me Back” that really stood out. Foster The People’s ability to evolve while staying true to their sound is a testament to their longevity in the indie-alt scene. Foster himself was visibly energized, dancing across the stage with a magnetic presence that drew everyone in.
A standout moment came when the band launched into “Coming of Age.” There was something particularly special about hearing that song live, the crowd roaring as the song’s infectious guitar riff kicked in. You could feel the connection between the band and the audience, especially when Mark took a moment to thank the fans for their unwavering support over the years. And of course, the night wouldn’t have been complete without “Pumped Up Kicks.” When those opening bass notes began, the entire room erupted. The song’s darkly ironic lyrics still resonate, and it was surreal to see how it has maintained its cultural impact over the years. They let the audience take over on the chorus, with voices filling Emo’s in a way that felt almost cathartic.
It was the perfect way to spend a Thursday evening, celebrating not just the music that made Foster The People a staple in indie music, but also their continued evolution as one of the most dynamic acts around.
FOSTER THE PEOPLE
Photos + Review by Brenna Mata | Exclusively for Music, Why Not!