The Crate
Cage The Elephant
Neon Pill
Neon Pill is Cage the Elephant’s sixth studio album, released May 17, 2024 on RCA Records. It followed a five-year gap after Social Cues and centers on Matt Shultz’s personal struggles and recovery; the title track later earned a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Performance. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
2) Recording History
- Recording studio/location: The lead single Neon Pill was recorded at Sonic Ranch in Tornillo, Texas, with John Hill’s production help. ([consequence.net](https://consequence.net/2024/01/cage-the-elephant-neon-pill-stream/))
- Producers & engineers: The album is produced by John Hill; mixing by Manny Marroquin; mastering by Randy Merrill; engineering credits include Jeremy Ferguson, John Mueller, Jon Yeston, and Jonny Bell, among others. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
- Recording dates/sessions: Material was written over a lengthy period—about five years after Social Cues—with a recording process described as having many starts and stops before a final push that culminated in the 2024 release. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
- Notable techniques/equipment: String arrangements on several tracks were performed by Rob Moose; additional vocal contributions came from background singers, with credited engineering support and a polished, sonically expansive approach noted in reviews. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
3) Chart Performance & Recognition
- Chart positions: Neon Pill reached No. 57 on the US Billboard 200; it also charted on US Top Rock & Alternative Albums (No. 15) and Top Rock Albums (No. 12). Internationally, it appeared on several national charts. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
- Singles & airplay: The title track and other singles (including Rainbow and Metaverse) achieved notable airplay, with the title track topping Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
- Awards & reception: The album’s title track was Grammy-nominated for Best Alternative Music Performance at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards; the album holds a generally favorable critical reception (Metacritic ~74/100). ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
4) Cultural Impact & Legacy
- Influence & reception: Critics highlighted Neon Pill as a culmination of Cage the Elephant’s evolving sound, with praise for its cohesion and emotional scope. It’s seen as a mature, genre-fluid statement that builds on their past work. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))
- Notable trivia: The album title and songs reference personal loss and recovery, including material tied to Brad and Matt Shultz’s father; the album’s creation was tied to significant personal events in Shultz’s life. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Pill))