On January 11, 2011, alternative rock band, Cage the Elephant, released their second studio album, Thank You, Happy Birthday. While it hasn’t remained the most popular out of the group’s discography since the release of other projects such as Melophobia (2013) and Social Cues (2019), it is home to some of my favorite Cage the Elephant songs to date. On November 17, 2023, the band released Thank You, Happy Birthday (Expanded Edition). Across all streaming services, the original fourteen-track album has turned into a fifteen-track album with the addition of a song titled, “Shiver.” On the Expanded Edition vinyl, there are three exclusive acoustic tracks along with the previously unreleased song.
Since its re-release, I have been playing the record on repeat. After hearing the full album again, plus a brand new song, here are my thoughts of the newly expanded, Thank You, Happy Birthday.
There are so many different moods that can be felt and heard throughout the album, but somehow the songs remain cohesive with one another. You are kept you on your toes, as songs transition from alternative rock, to a harder rock, to a softer indie. It’s hard to get bored listening to this album, which truly makes it one of the band’s most underrated.
Standout songs include “Aberdeen,” “2024,” “Sell Yourself” and the album’s most popular track, “Shake Me Down.” All of these are just a few of the songs that keep my love for Cage the Elephant ongoing. From the distinct vocals of lead singer, Matt Shultz, catchy guitar riffs and fast drums, not only these, but every song on the album incapsulates and adds to the prominent sound of Cage the Elephant as a band.
The newest addition to the project is “Shiver.” This song really helps to round out the album and it highlights the softer side, which appears less compared to other styles. The slow chord progression and piano heard in the background continues the calmer vibe of the song placed before it, “Flow,” right before the energy kicks back in for the final two songs, “Doctor Doctor Doctor Help Me Help Me Help Me” and “Carry Me In.”
The re-release of this album has helped older fans fall in love with the band again, and newer fans to be introduced to the band’s earlier music. The variety found within the album makes it super interesting to hear and not only the first time you listen to it, but also every time after. Thank You, Happy Birthday is a great Cage the Elephant album that has no skips.
I am from Houston, Texas and currently attending the University of Houston as a marketing major! From attending concerts, playing guitar, and collecting vinyl, I love anything that has to do with music. Some of my favorite artists include The Strokes, Omar Apollo, and boygenius. Besides that, I really like shopping, watching Pitch Perfect, and discovering new places in Houston!
