Royal Wood Crafts Melancholy Version of Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks”

Posted by Amanda Dissinger at 4:30 pm Add comments

May 042011

Foster the People’s fun California-esque laidback brand of indie pop seems like it’s been everywhere the past few months. Now, Toronto songwriter/producer Royal Wood has recorded a vastly different version of their hit “Pumped Up Kicks,” making a song that was originally a light and fun summer song into a complex and philosophical track.

Royal’s voice, deep and haunting, transforms the song into a nostalgic tragedy, moaning “They’re coming for you, coming for you.” By the time he gets to the whistling solo (around the 2 1/2 minute mark), you’re not sure if this is the most brilliant interpretation or just the eeriest. It’s no longer a song about hanging out with your friends, but one of deep betrayal and mistrust. Check it out below.

Royal Wood – Pumped Up Kicks (Foster the People cover)

Check out more from Royal Wood on his Myspace.

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