That night of February 3, 2025 at The Observatory in Santa Ana, was one of those special nights where the music, the energy, and the vibe all came together perfectly. Indie pop legends Foster the People and the up-and-coming Good Neighbours took the stage, and I was lucky enough to be there.
Good Neighbours: A Pleasant Surprise
I didn’t know much about Good Neighbours before the show, but they completely stole the spotlight as the opening act. This London-based duo, formed by Scott and Oli, brought a vibrant energy that immediately caught the crowd’s attention. Their music has a nostalgic indie pop feel, reminiscent of early 2000s favorites like Passion Pit and MGMT, but with a fresh, cinematic spin that feels distinctly their own.
What really stood out was their chemistry on stage. You could tell they weren’t just going through the motions—they were living in the music. Their songs, like “Home” and “Ripple,” blended infectious electronic beats with smooth, heartfelt vocals, creating an atmosphere that was both upbeat and intimate. Even though they’re relatively new to the scene, they played with the confidence of a band that has been performing for years.
The crowd started swaying along halfway through their set, and by the end, people were moving and nodding their heads, clearly caught up in the moment. Good Neighbours aren’t just trying to make hits—they’re crafting experiences, and it was obvious they had made some new fans by the end of the night, myself included. There’s something special about them, and I left their performance thinking, these guys are definitely going places.
Foster the People: Still Got It
Then came Foster the People, and the energy in the room skyrocketed. As soon as Mark Foster hit the first note of “Houdini,” it was like the whole place erupted. Hearing them live reminded me of why I fell in love with their music years ago—they’re not just a band with catchy tunes, they’re tight, polished, and clearly still passionate about what they do. “Helena Beat” and “Sit Next to Me” had the entire venue singing along, and of course, “Pumped Up Kicks” brought back all the feels.
But it wasn’t just about the hits. Their newer tracks showed how much they’ve evolved, without losing that infectious, feel-good energy that makes them so special. Every song felt like a moment, and the way they connected with the crowd made it feel intimate, like we were all in on something magical together.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS PHOTOGALLERY:
FOSTER THE PEOPLE PHOTOGALLERY:
