Foster the People: Live at Emo’s

By Adrian Escareno

Local Music Journalist

On Thursday, I had the pleasure of traveling back in time to 2010. Austin lived up to its reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World, with Emo’s hosting an unforgettable, sold-out show headlined by Foster the People. With their ACL Festival performance looming the very next day, the band delivered a surprising and energetic set. I have to admit, I went into the show thinking Foster the People was just a one-hit-wonder, but they completely shattered my expectations. What I expected to be just a nostalgic night turned into a celebration of funky tunes and dancing with strangers, as the band’s performance proved they are far more than their early hits. 

The opener of the night was the Austin band Skateland, who is not your typical indie band. Their performances radiate amazing energy and an infectious, relaxed energy that resonates with the audience. They have a unique sound characterized by dreamy guitar licks and smooth saxophone tones, creating an almost sunny atmosphere. Their set featured the song “Yes Yes Ok,” which fully showed their style with its catchy melody and engaging lyrics. This track has a way of sticking in your mind, making it the kind of song you find yourself humming long after the performance ends. 

The interplay between the guitar and saxophone is a defining feature of Skateland’s sound, contributing to an aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s this blend of innovative music that draws listeners in and invites them to sway along with the rhythm. Another highlight from their set was the introduction of a new song titled “Chowder,” marking an exciting evolution for the band. This track showcased their growth, as the saxophone took on a more pronounced role, blending seamlessly with the intricate guitar riffs.  

Additionally, the set included “Sunset Cinema,” a song that perfectly encapsulates Skateland’s overall performance. The lyrics evoke vivid imagery, transporting listeners to hazy, orange sunsets and long drives with the windows down. It’s the kind of music that feels like summer, where each note is imbued with a sense of freedom and adventure. Skateland’s ability to create such vivid atmospheres through their music is a testament to their artistry, setting the tone for a truly memorable night. 

In contrast, Foster the People, fronted by the charismatic Mark Foster, completely shifted the energy of the evening. Those expecting a standard indie rock set were in for a surprise. The band delivered a funky, high-energy performance that was nothing short of electrifying. Foster’s stage presence is magnetic, effortlessly engaging the audience and drawing them into the performance. His spirit, combined with the band’s infectious sound, transformed Emo’s into a dance party, where everyone was compelled to move. 

 Foster the People’s set felt like a celebration, not just of their return to Austin, but of their journey as artists over the past several years. The incorporation of synthesized elements into their music lent a modern twist, merging electronic sounds with their signature indiepop. This fusion allowed them to experiment with different styles while still retaining the catchy hooks that fans love. 

One of the standout moments came during their performance of “Pumped Up Kicks,” a song that became a cultural phenomenon when it was first released. What struck me most during the performance wasn’t the typical chorus of fans screaming over the lyrics. Yes, the audience sang along, but it felt like we were all just taking in the moment—embracing the fact that this controversial song was being played at all. Despite its heavy subject matter, hearing the track live hit me emotionally in a way I didn’t expect. I was 10 when it came out, and I can still vividly recall singing along with my mom, even as she and my dad debated whether we should even be listening to it. That contrast between upbeat melodies and dark lyrics was something I only began to understand over time. It was a song that many—including myself—had doubts the band would perform, but when they did, it felt like a wave of serotonin washing over the crowd. Instead of belting out the words, everyone in the sold-out venue paused and listened, almost in reverence, as Mark Foster sang. It was a moment of reflection and connection that made the performance unforgettable, taking us back to the simpler times of 2010, just for a moment.  

Whether attendees were there to unwind with Skateland’s smooth saxophone-driven melodies or to dance their hearts out to Foster the People’s synth-infused hits, the night was a celebration of music’s power to connect people. The palpable energy and enthusiasm from both the performers and the audience left a lasting impression, reminding everyone of the joy that live music brings. The sold-out show at Emo’s served as a powerful reminder of why we love live music. It’s about the moments we share, the memories we create, and the connections we forge through the universal language of sound. For those lucky enough to be there, it was an experience that would linger long after the last note had faded.