Indie band Good Neighbours hit the stage at The Foundry at The Fillmore on a cool Friday evening, putting on a memorable performance. The intimate venue, with its warm lighting and cozy atmosphere, was the perfect location for the band on Sept. 6, accommodating up to 450 people.
Good Neighbours take much of their inspiration for their style of music from the 2000s American indietronica band Passion Pit, of which Drexel University Assistant Professor Jeff Apruzzese was a bassist for eight years. The band also mimics and draws creativity from rock band MGMT’s euphoric and hallucinogenic style of music.
The size of the crowd grew the closer it got to the headliner hitting the stage. They kicked off their set with “Keep It Up,” immediately catching the attention of the audience. Somehow the lyrics find a way to relate themselves to anyone, no matter the city they live in or the city that they love. Each song flowed seamlessly into the next. The rhythmic beat and lively instrumentation had everyone swaying, establishing an atmosphere of unity and joy.
Good Neighbours’ stage presence was extremely captivating as they radiated pure joy and energy into their music. The camaraderie among band members was evident as they stepped back towards their drummer to exchange a laugh or grin, putting smiles on everyone’s faces because it truly transformed the concert into a shared experience rather than just a simple performance.
A banner featuring the logo of their single “Home” hung prominently on the keyboard, while their band name was projected behind them. Similar posters of the little home with a subtle face were also spotted earlier in the summer in New York City and Philadelphia. Scott Verill and Oli Fox, two independent vocalists came together for their first hit single “Home,” released on Jan. 17, which quickly became adored over TikTok after they teased the song for months. “Home,” in particular, encapsulates feelings of nostalgia, invoking a feeling of homesickness.
The opener, Ber, also contributed significantly to the night’s energy. Their unique blend of indie pop and electronic elements set the stage for Good Neighbours, drawing the audience in while telling the stories behind each song. The crowd responded positively, engaging with Ber and her storytelling of moments while she was living abroad.
Midway through the show, the band surprised the audience with their cover of “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter.
As the concert progressed, the band returned to their original material with “Ripple” and “Home.” It was clear that many of the audience members were anxiously waiting to hear the songs live after listening to them all summer long.
Saving the best for last, Good Neighbours performed their third biggest hit “Daisies,” which reached approximately 4.2 million listeners. The band’s distinct instrumentation brought the song to life, creating a euphoric moment that had fans singing along at the top of their lungs while dancing to the music.
Listening to such an incredible combination of lyrics, guitar solos, drums and notes from a keyboard, it was comforting knowing that the soloists were sticking together to create more music. Their ability to connect with the audience, coupled with their engaging setlist and dynamic stage presence, created an experience that was both memorable and uplifting. Good Neighbors proved once again why they are growing to become a beloved band in the indie music scene, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next show.