Summer storms are oftentimes unavoidable and this past Thursday evening, at Merriweather Post Pavilion, a rather large storm blew right over the venue. Only seven songs into their set, Cage the Elephant had to leave the stage due to an approaching storm. The very crowded lawn was vacated and attendees were asked to return to their cars. Fans in the pavilion were kept in place as the rain poured down, the wind blew and the thunder rolled. Storms are the chance you take with summer outdoor venues and this storm delay lasted nearly an hour.

Despite the delay, Cage the Elephant came back on stage just shortly before 9:30 PM and powered through the second half of their set. It was definitely worth the wait as the band came back performing fan favorites such as “Trouble”, “Cigarette Daydreams”, and “Shake Me Down”. Lead singer, Matt Shultz amazed the crowd during the final song, in which he made his way from the stage to the soundboard by climbing over the chairs, row after row, with the help of some willing fans. After a brief stop at the soundboard, he continued his journey out towards the lawn.

For those who stuck around during the delay or made their way back into the venue after the storms passed, they were definitely treated to a stellar performance by Cage the Elephant. Beck closed out the evening and he still managed to perform a full set of 16 songs despite the later start. Thanks to Merriweather Post Pavilion and the bands for a great night of music despite the unexpected weather!

Enjoy these photos of Cage the Elephant performing at Merriweather on August 22nd. You can enjoy pictures of Sunflower Bean, Spoon and Beck by checking out the full gallery of photos on On Tap Magazine!

All photos and video courtesy of Shantel Mitchell Breen