Photos by Katie Holtzclaw ; Written by Katie Holtzclaw
On June 2nd, the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, Georgia, came alive with an extraordinary night of music, featuring the enigmatic rockers Cage the Elephant as the headliners and Girl Tones, whose engaging indie-pop set offered a captivating start to the night, Bakar, whose genre-blending style and charismatic presence further energized the crowd, and then Young the Giant who took over, delivering a thrilling performance that showcased their melodic indie rock. When Young The Giant appeared on that stage with lead singer Sameer Gadhia’s soaring vocals on tracks like “My Body” and “Cough Syrup,” the audience was kept thoroughly engaged without question.
As night fell, Cage the Elephant took the stage, infusing the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre with a surge of high-energy rock. Their set, featuring fan favorites like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and “Trouble,” highlighted their distinctive blend of gritty rock and diverse musical styles. Matt Shultz, known for his intense and expressive vocals, took an unusually chatty approach this evening. Between songs, he engaged the crowd with candid remarks about his typically shy nature, jokingly suggesting that his publicist might now insist he talk more often at shows. His unexpected banter added a personal touch to the performance, complementing the band’s vibrant and genre-blending instrumentation. The seamless interplay among the band members and their ability to balance raw energy with heartfelt melodies created an immersive experience, leaving the audience thoroughly captivated by both the music and Shultz’s charismatic storytelling.
The night highlighted the impact of live music, with all four artists delivering standout performances that deeply connected with the audience. The blend of Young the Giant’s catchy indie rock and Cage the Elephant’s powerful rock anthems created an evening to remember, leaving fans exhilarated by the exceptional show. Adding to the night’s dynamic energy were the Girl Tones, whose grunge-inspired rock style pushed the boundaries and electrified the crowd with their raw intensity. Bakar’s performance was as awesome as ever, seamlessly blending with the high-octane atmosphere. As the amphitheater lights faded and the night’s energy lingered, it was evident that June 2nd celebrated the extraordinary skill and vibrant spirit of live performance, showcasing a thrilling range of musical talent.
Their set was marked by a powerful delivery of both classic hits and newer material, culminating in an explosive finale, including:
• “Broken Boy” – The band opened with this high-energy track, immediately engaging the crowd.
• “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” – A fan favorite that brought a wave of nostalgia and excitement.
• “Trouble” – This track’s raw power and gritty sound elevated the performance. • “Shake Me Down” – The band’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with anthemic rock was on full display.
• “Come a Little Closer” – The infectious beat and sing-along chorus energized the audience. • “Ready to Let Go” – A powerful song that mixed introspection with a driving rhythm.
• “Skin and Bones” – The track’s emotional depth and dynamic instrumentation resonated strongly.
• “Social Cues” – The performance of this song showcased the band’s lyrical insight and musical range.
• “Telescope” – A reflective and atmospheric song that offered a moment of calm before the finale. • “In One Ear” – The set concluded with this explosive track, leaving the audience energized and satisfied.
