Most notably known for their single, “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked,” that appeared on their self-titled album in 2008, Cage the Elephant has produced 4 more studio albums since then. Thank You, Happy Birthday dropped two years later on January 11^th of 2011. This album in particular introduced more of a blues accent into their sound. “Shake me Down” was the first single to be released, coming out nearly 2 months before the full album. In this song we can see the first signs of a new sound budding from the band. Two years later Melophobia came out. This album gave us “Come a Little Closer” with its hints of psychedelic rock intertwined with the familiar alternative beats. These elements carried over into their 2015 album titled, Tell Me I’m Pretty. Dabbling in new sounds as well as keeping the similar old ones, Cage the Elephant created a garage rock lover’s dream album.

The opening song immediately had me tapping my foot and playing with anything I could use as a drumstick around me. “Cry Baby” sets the tone for the entirety of “Tell Me I’m Pretty,” and one brilliant tone did it set. Not only did the song incorporate hints of electric and a soul moving bass line, but it also hit rhythmically and vocally. The entire album invites listeners into the passionately emotional and raw world that Cage the Elephant has created. Matt Shultz, the lead singer said at the release of the album, “If you’re not making songs that are surprising yourself, I don’t think you’re making the right songs.” This album not only surprised him, but definitely surprised the listeners. From the power-driven chords in “Mess Around” to the sorrowful synths in “Too Late To Say Goodbye,” Tell Me I’m Pretty is an album that can and will wrench you emotionally. 

Cage the Elephant – Tell Me I’m Pretty Track List:

1. Cry Baby
2. Mess Around
3. Sweetie Little Jean
4. Too Late to Say Goodbye
5. Cold Cold Cold
6. Trouble
7. How Are You True
8. That’s Right
9. Punchin’ Bag
10. Portuguese Knife Fight

Article by: Destinee Gates-Stepro