Show Review, Photos: The Format Thrill Sold-Out Los Angeles Crowd at Hollywood Forever
The Format
w/ Phantom Planet
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Los Angeles, CA
October 10th, 2025
Photos/Review by Amy Lane
On Friday night, The Format made their highly anticipated, long-awaited return to the stage at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Forever Cemetery, as part of a run of reunion shows taking place after an 18-year hiatus. The shows come as the band announced that they will be returning with a brand new album titled Boycott Heaven, which is set to be released on January 23rd, 2026.
After a stellar opening performance from Phantom Planet, closing with their iconic hit "California," the members of The Format took the stage, playing a set primarily of fan-favorite tracks from their albums Interventions + Lullabies and Dog Problems, and even a beloved EP deep cut, "Janet." Frontman Nate Ruess (known not only for his work with The Format, but also his solo work and indie rock act fun.) was all smiles and full of energy, jumping around the stage and having the time of his life. Ruess stepped back from the spotlight nearly a decade ago, retiring from touring life and starting a family. He stated during the show how he truly never expected to be back on stage.
The show closed with a four-song encore, featuring the live debut of "Boycott Heaven," the title track from the band’s forthcoming new album, as well as “The First Single" and acoustic renditions of “On Your Porch" and “A Save Situation."
The Format currently doesn’t have any shows planned after this one, but with a new album on the horizon and shows like the one they just put on to a thrilled Los Angeles crowd, the possibility seems higher that more concerts from the band could come down the road.
The Format Set List
If Work Permits
Wait, Wait, Wait
The Compromise
Tune Out
I’m Ready, I Am
She Doesn’t Get It
Give It Up
Dog Problems
Time Bomb
Janet
Snails
Holy Roller
Tie The Rope
Oceans
Encore:
On Your Porch
Boycott Heaven (live debut)
The First Single
A Save Situation
