Cage The Elephant Shines at PNC Music Pavilion
On a balmy summer evening, Cage The Elephant delivered an electrifying performance at the PNC Music Pavilion, leaving the audience in awe with their high-energy antics and captivating stage presence. The Grammy-winning band, known for their eclectic mix of rock, alternative, and punk influences, put on a show that will be remembered as one of the highlights of the concert season.
As the sun set, the anticipation in the air was palpable. Fans of all ages packed the PNC Music Pavilion, eagerly awaiting the band’s arrival. The stage was adorned with a minimalist yet striking setup, featuring vibrant lighting that set the mood for an unforgettable night. The buzz in the crowd was a testament to the band’s wide appeal and the excitement surrounding their performance.
Before Cage the Elephant took the stage, the audience was treated to some stellar opening acts. Vlad Holiday, Baker and Young The Giant brought their A-game, delivering solid performances that effectively warmed up the crowd. Each act received enthusiastic applause, setting the tone for the main event.
When the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Broken Boy” rang out, flames shot up from the pyro lined across the front of the stage setting set screen for what was to come. The crowd erupted in cheers. Frontman Matt Shultz, known for his frenetic energy and charismatic stage presence, immediately commanded the stage. Dressed in an eclectic outfit that mirrored the band’s quirky style, Shultz couldn’t do his normal dancing and jumping due to a broken foot, but that didn’t affect his performance. Shultz engaging with the audience in a way few frontmen can.
The band’s setlist was a perfect mix of old favorites and newer hits, showcasing their versatility and growth as artists. Classics like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and “Shake Me Down” had the crowd singing along word for word, while newer tracks like “Social Cues” and “Night Running” demonstrated their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. The newest song “Rainbow” that came out in May was one I really liked.
Cage the Elephant’s musical prowess was on full display throughout the night. Guitarists Brad Shultz and Nick Bockrath delivered searing riffs and intricate solos, while bassist Daniel Tichenor and drummer Jared Champion provided a rock-solid rhythm section that kept the energy levels high. Keyboardist Matthan Minster added depth and texture to the band’s sound, enhancing the overall sonic experience.
The visual elements of the show were equally impressive. Dynamic lighting and visually stunning backdrops complemented the band’s energetic performance, creating a multisensory experience that captivated the audience. The emotional depth of the band’s lyrics was brought to life through Matt Shultz’s passionate delivery, making songs like “Cigarette Daydreams” particularly poignant.
Fans left the venue buzzing with excitement, already reminiscing about the unforgettable moments of the night. Cage the Elephant proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music
Looking forward to the next time I can see them and get the full effect of Shultz. I want to witness the jumping and crowd surfing and all his dancing. Get that foot healed and come back to Charlotte and give us the full effect.
