It’s absolutely bonkers to me that it’s been five years since Cage the Elephant released Social Cues, one of my favorite records from that year, but we’ve finally been given new music with the likes of Neon Pill. And a tour!
Straight away I can tell you that one listen through didn’t have many songs leaving a lasting impression on me. That kind of sucks, but it was still a perfectly good record that will likely have a few more solid wins if I give it a few more chances. The number one stand out for me was one of their pre-released singles, “Good Time.” For me, it’s the only song on the album that sounded truly unique and very cool. I’d be liable to think you were dead if you listened to this and didn’t bob your head at least a little bit. And since it was a single, I really, really hope I get to hear this live – it will be so much fun!
“Metaverse” was another song on the album that I found I really enjoyed, but I couldn’t help but feel it was also really corny. It reminded me of something One Direction could have released, though lyrically it’s not squeaky clean. In fact, it’s talking about how all of the bands’ success takes him away from his family. While there was definitely new ground explored on this album, the title track and “Ball & Chain” reminded me the most of old Cage the Elephant material. I attribute that to just the general sound, but also the way Matt delivers his vocals.
Though I didn’t enjoy “Hifi (True Light),” I didn’t think it made much as an opening track for the album. Even the neat guitar sounds and a sick descending baseline couldn’t make this truly the best opener. Similarly, the album ended with a pretty slow song and those just haven’t been my jam lately. “Out Loud,” is perhaps the stronger almost-ballad on this record, as it deals directly with how Matt’s substance abuse ruined a big part of his past, both personally and in the band. Though this doesn’t seem like a song to be played in a live setting, I wouldn’t be surprised to see it make the cut on the tour’s set list later this year.
As far as the rest of the album goes, I didn’t feel there was a ton of variation, and in some cases if you weren’t paying attention you might not be able to distinguish where one songs ends and another one starts. Still, it was a good album overall and I’m sure I’ll be listening to certain songs over and over again for the rest of my life. Their show later this year is one I am most looking forward to, since the last time was probably almost a decade ago – and they were so good!