It’s been approximately ten years since Foster the People’s debut album Torches was released, so in order to celebrate that milestone they played that album front to back and was kind enough to livestream it for all us losers who couldn’t attend in person. Bless.
When I think back to 2011 when the album was released, my sister and I were carpooling to college and we listened to that album non-stop. Naturally, we were very excited about this livestream and the promise that we’d get to hear all ten tracks off of it played live. We certainly have our favorite songs off of the record, but there’s honestly not a bad one in the bunch. While my sister sort of gave up on them after their first album (really, that sophomore effort was rough), I stuck it out and have been rewarded in the decade since their debut. That means bookending the Torches part of the setlist, I got to hear some old and almost brand-spanking new songs! It was an exciting two hours for me.
In the opening cluster of songs not off Torches, I was most excited to hear “Coming of Age,” which was probably my favorite song off of their sophomore album. Also hearing one of their newer singles ‘Lamb’s Wool” was a nice experience. In getting into the meat of the show, I was loving the energy brought to the whole damn thing really, but “Miss You” went off! I feel like that one has to stay on any live performances in the future. Back in 2012 I saw Foster the People open for the Beach Boys, so the set was shorter and I didn’t get to hear a couple of my favorite songs off the album. That means I was giddy with excitement to hear “I Would Do Anything for You” and “Warrant.” Trust me when I say, they delivered. Goosebumps for sure!
Obviously, the crowd was amped to hear “Pumped Up Kicks” and I personally hope that never leaves their live setlist in the future. “Helena Beat” and “Houdini” were also excellent. But who am I kidding, all of the Torches performance was amazing. It’s hard to pick a favorite. Once that section of the show was done though, it was cool to hear “Ruby” and “Broken Jaw,” both tracks that came from the Torches era. I also really liked hearing “Lotus Eater,” which was one of my favorite songs off of the band’s last full length release, Sacred Hearts Club. Another new single was debuted during this performance and I was a big fan of “Walk With a Big Stick” and it’s hella catchy bassline.
Overall, it was a fantastic performance, even from the comforts of my living room. I also appreciated that Mark Foster made reference to his former bandmates, stating that they were brothers and that even though he’d love for them to play together forever that he understands life changes. Sure, Mark might be the only original member left in the band, but I have no doubts that the new members will keep the band’s original vision alive. Here’s hoping for a tour next year (like he promised at one point), and some more Torches!