By TJ Ford
Arts Editor
The classic indie-alternative rock genre that people have come to expect from Coachella was also well-represented this year by Cage the Elephant. The band redefined what a show truly should be, through intense audience interaction and an unquestionable knack for riling up an enormous crowd.
Even though the group does not use the classic crowd-shocking techniques that electronic-based groups have the luxury of, like bass drops or laser light shows, it still wowed with an unforgettable concert that began mellow and crescendo-ed into absolute mania.
One of the biggest factors that fed into the excitement of the set was the charm of lead singer, Matt Shultz. His stage presence was that of a veteran performer, as he not only rocked the show vocally, but also engaged fans with his stage fanatics. Hopping over barriers, running into the audience, even taking selfies with fans, he epitomized what being a natural performer is.
Both stage set and audience interaction were high points of the group’s set, too. Band members dove into screaming crowds and turned amplifiers into their own jungle gym, climbing and playing as they pleased.
It was more than sound that stunned Cage the Elephant’s crowd on Coachella’s grassy lawn. Rather, it was the group’s ability to thrill and create an atmosphere of excitability through its performance.
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