Cage the Elephant at the Forum

Eagerly pouring into the reputable Forum after their pre-show pints, the crowd quickly filled up the big hall to welcome back Kentucky’s renowned alternative rock band Cage the Elephant. With four well-received studio albums, including last year’s release Tell Me I’m Pretty, the band is known for its energy-filled, memorable gigs – and London was ready.

Their very presence had the whole place cheering and shouting. From the distinctive blues and psychedelic guitar intro of their opening song, Cry Baby, off their newest album, the audience was anything but still. Jumping and rocking in a synchronised beat, the Forum’s energy was impressive – but not quite as impressive as frontman Matthew Shultz’s. Between the funky bass lines, contagious guitar riffs and solid drumbeats, Shultz was everywhere – taking ridiculously high jumps, rolling on the floor and constantly diving into the crowd, making every fan’s dream come true.

From older masterpieces such as In One Ear, off their first and self-titled album, to fan favourites Spiderhead and Come a Little Closer, the well-dressed band made sure the venue’s vibrancy and spark remained high and lit. With plastic cups flying in all directions, zealous youngsters attempting to crowd surf and a full-scale mosh pit stirring into place, the scene was impeccable and the passion undeniable.

Mellower pieces such as Too Late to Say Goodbye and Cold Cold Cold didn’t slow down the public, as the harmonious singing overwhelmed Shultz, leaving him wanting to go above and beyond. And that is exactly what he did – jumping off the balcony and crowd–surfing shirtless, leaving everyone in awe of his undying vitality.

Whether it was the tireless teenagers up front or the middle-aged fans enjoying their pints up on the balcony, everybody was bouncing and moving. The set’s highlights – the funky Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked, recent track Mess Around and classics Back Against the Wall and Come a Little Closer – had the Forum in a musical trance. Nobody wanted the night to end.

The deafening screaming and the in-sync clapping welcomed the group back on for a captivating encore. To the audience’s delight, Shultz showed off his alluring unique voice in a beautiful rendition of Cigarette Daydreams. Finishing off with the roaring Sabertooth Tiger, more crowd-surfing and guitar-throwing, Cage the Elephant turned everybody’s regular Thursday night into one of sweat, energy and fun.

Naomi Schanen
Photos: Filippo L’Astorina

 For further information about Cage the Elephant and future event visit here.

 Watch the video for Mess Around here: