In a night that resonated with raw emotion and unbridled energy, Cage The Elephant’s “Neon Pill” tour stop at Vancouver's Rogers Arena on June 26, 2024, was nothing short of spectacular. The band's fifth performance of their insane 45-stop tour proved their live shows are an electrifying blend of catharsis and celebration, setting a high bar for the remaining dates.
Photos by Tage Stenner / Backspin Canada
The night kicked off with a bang—literally. The opening notes of "Broken Boy" were accompanied by an explosion of flames, immediately igniting the crowd’s enthusiasm and setting the tone for an unforgettable night. The stage, bathed in vibrant neon lights, mirrored the eclectic spirit of their latest album, "Neon Pill," released just a month prior.
As the pyro was toned down temporarily, the band seamlessly transitioned into "Cry Baby" and "Spiderhead," each song delivered with a ferocity that had the audience screaming along. The setlist was a rollercoaster of emotions and sounds, featuring a mix of old favourites and new tracks that showcased the band's evolving artistry. From the moving song "Too Late to Say Goodbye" to the raucous "Good Time," each song felt like a chapter in an epic saga of triumph and tribulation.
Lead vocalist Matthew Shultz was a force of nature, his stage presence as dynamic and unpredictable as ever. His voice, at times a haunting whisper and at others a powerful roar, carried the weight of the band's turbulent recent history. Songs like "Cold Cold Cold" and "Ready to Let Go" resonated deeply, their lyrics painted with the hues of personal and collective struggle.
The titular track "Neon Pill" stood out as a highlight of the night. Its infectious rhythm and introspective lyrics captured the essence of the band’s journey—finding strength in vulnerability and creativity in chaos. The crowd’s response was loud, showing their connection with the band as they sang along to every word.
As the concert progressed, Cage The Elephant proved why they are celebrated for their live performances. Each member brought their A-game: Brad Shultz's gritty guitar riffs, Daniel Tichenor's driving bass lines, Jared Champion's thunderous drumming, Nick Bockrath's searing solos, and Matthan Minster’s atmospheric keys created a soundscape that was both intricate and expansive.
The encore was the icing on the cake for the night. The band returned to the stage with "Shake Me Down," followed by the introspective "Cigarette Daydreams." The final song, "Come a Little Closer," had the entire arena swaying in unison, with flashlights in the air, a fitting end to a night that felt both personal and communal.
Cage The Elephant’s return to the stage on their "Neon Pill" tour was impressive and showcased their resilience and creativity. Their performance at Rogers Arena was a powerful reminder of the healing and transformative power of music. As the crowd dispersed, there was a lingering question in the air: How will the band continue to evolve and inspire as they move through this tour and beyond?
Cage The Elephant’s "Neon Pill" tour continues to blaze a trail across North America, bringing their unique brand of rock to fans old and new. If you haven't yet experienced their live show, it's a journey worth taking.
What’s next for Cage The Elephant? Will they continue to push the boundaries of their music and live performances? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—this is a band that thrives on evolution and connection.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see one of the most dynamic live acts of our time.
View upcoming tour dates here
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