Foals Engulfed the Mission Ballroom in British Alt-Rock Glory.

Filling a large venue on a Monday night is a tough task for any touring artist. But much adored British alt-rockers Foals pushed away the start of the week’s blues, transforming the Mission Ballroom into a high energy party more like that of a Friday night show. The band kicked their set off with “Wake me up” from their newest album “Life is yours”. The infectious dance inspiring tune waking up the crowd and igniting the energy in the room. Openers Gustaf and Inner Wave played killer sets that sparked life into the room, but it was clear that the crowd was here to see Foals.

The blazing light-show and frontmans Yannis Philippakis playful guitar work were dazzling as the band oozed high energy into their performance. Foals tore through a well balanced setlist full of fan favorites and catchy fresh songs from their newest album. The energy of the night shifted as the band reached the last third of their set as the band began playing “Spanish Sahara”. The deep emotional song a contrast from the bouncier tunes interwoven in the setlist prior.

In the current state of music, crowds fully expect an encore from a band. This expectation often leads to a band returning to stage with a couple songs played with an energy that makes them no more memorable than the prior songs. Not Foals, bouncing back to the stage with the riff heavy “Snake Oil”. Tearing through the three song encore with a boost of gusto. Yannis with guitar in hands, shredding and soloing his way into the crowd. The charismatic frontman even making his way to the venues bar to order and throw back a shot of liquor before playing his way back to stage. Real rockstar energy.

Foals will continue to tour the US through December before returning to the states to provide support for Paramore’s summer tour.