Words and Photos by Chelsea Vaughan
Foster the People, formed in 2009 in Los Angeles, California, is an indie-pop band with more hits than you can count on your hands. I’m not kidding when I say this; over half of their discography plays at my work. (Thanks Wawa!) While mostly known for hits such as “Pumped Up Kicks” & “Don’t Stop (Color on the Walls)”, the band is currently touring for their newest album, Paradise State of Mind, which contrary to streaming numbers, is currently their highest-rated album on Metacritic.
The band was initially supposed to perform at the Skyline Stage at The Mann in Philadelphia, PA on Oct 11th, 2026. However, due to inclement weather, the show was moved at the last minute from the venue’s fully outdoor GA stage, to their pavilion stage. All seats became first-come first-serve for those who purchased tickets.
Opening up the show as well was Goth Babe, which contrary to the name, is an indie solo project started by Griff Washburn. Not only was his set a great warm-up for the crowd, he also gave away a free toaster to whichever side of the crowd was louder. Not a usual prize for winning, but a free toaster is a free toaster!
Shortly after Goth Babe’s set, the lights dimmed and it was time for Foster the People to come on stage. Foster the People’s set was full of back-to-back hits, starting with “Life on the Nickel” & “Helena Beat,” to reminiscing in blue light to “Coming of Age,” the lead single from their second album, Supermodel. The pavilion stage, while being unplanned, ended up setting the perfect vibe for the show. Not only was every seat still packed from front-to-back, but the entire crowd was singing along to every word. Many people ended up moving out of their aisle seats to dance in the crowd as well. The band put on a stellar performance overall.
The perseverance through the rain was truly a sight to see; I’m really glad the weather ended up working out just enough to let the show go on! If you want to catch up with Foster the People’s tour, follow them on Instagram here.
