Singing Guide: Cage The Elephant
Vocal technique, exercises, tips and relevant resources
Cage The Elephant is renowned for their high-energy live shows and soulful, bluesy rock sound. Their lead singer, Matt Shultz, has a distinctive vocal style that can be challenging to emulate. In this article, we'll explore some of the key techniques that Shultz employs to create his unique sound, as well as some tips on how to incorporate these techniques into your own singing.
One of the most important aspects of Shultz's singing style is his use of dynamics. He has the ability to switch effortlessly between soft, breathy vocals and powerful, gritty screams. This is something that can take a lot of practice to perfect, but a good place to start is by experimenting with different levels of breath support and vocal tension.
Another key component of Shultz's sound is his incorporation of falsetto. He frequently uses a high, airy falsetto to add an extra layer of emotion to his songs. If you're not already comfortable with your falsetto range, be sure to check out Singing Carrots' vocal range and pitch accuracy tests to get started.
Shultz's gritty tone is also a signature aspect of his singing. To achieve this sound, experiment with using a bit more vocal tension, especially in your chest voice. Be sure to warm up properly before attempting any "gritty" singing, as excessive strain can damage your vocal cords over time.
In terms of specific songs to explore, some of Cage The Elephant's greatest hits showcase Shultz's vocal range particularly well. For example, "Ain't No Rest For The Wicked" is a great example of his dynamic range, while "Cigarette Daydreams" highlights his use of falsetto. Other notable tracks to check out include "Come A Little Closer" and "Trouble".
Finally, Singing Carrots has a range of tools and resources that can help you perfect your singing style. The pitch training program is a particularly useful tool for working on your voice control and pitch accuracy, while the vocal range test can help you identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to explore the full range of Singing Carrots' resources to make the most of your singing practice.