Dave Grohl Fills in on Drums for Cage the Elephant

2011-10-12

Story by Anne Erickson

Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl is a ‘Hero’ to Cage the Elephant

Foo Fighters are currently trekking North America with Kentucky rockers Cage the Elephant as their opening act. So, when Cage the Elephant drummer Jared Champion’s appendix ruptured just hours before last night’s (Oct. 11) show in Salt Lake City, there was talk of Cage the Elephant having to cancel their opening slot. Of course, Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl wouldn’t let that happen.

After Champion was hurried to the hospital, the always-thoughtful Grohl came to the rescue, offering to play drums for a good portion of Cage the Elephant’s set. Who would turn down the opportunity to have Nirvana’s former skinsman backing their band for one, unforgettable night? The guys of Cage the Elephant happily agreed, and fans were treated to a rare showing of Grohl back on drums — where he started decades ago — playing the last five songs of Cage the Elephant’s set. Champion is expected to recover soon.

Cage the Elephant were extremely grateful for Grohl stepping in, stating on their official Facebook page that it was a, “Crazy Crazy day! Huge thanks to Dave Grohl for jammin the drums!! Having a great time on Foo Fighters tour!!! Get well soon Jared!” At the show, Cage the Elephant singer Matthew Shultz told the crowd that playing with Grohl on the drum kit was “one of those moments I’ll never forget for the rest of my life,” according to the Salt Lake Tribune. It sounds as if Cage the Elephant would call Grohl, “My Hero,” much like the Foos’ 1998 rock hit.

Foo Fighters’ latest alternative rock single, “These Days” off 2011’s Wasting Light, packs rich melodies, distorted guitars and a warm, swelling chorus in the style of “Times Like These” and “Learn to Fly.” Read Audio Ink Radio’s review of the song on our reviews page.

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Anne Erickson

Meet the expert - Author, writer and editor Anne Erickson is a Detroit-based music reporter and radio host. She has written for the USA Today Network, Consequence.net, Blabbermouth.net, Loudwire.com and many more. Anne holds a master's degree from Michigan State University. Contact Anne at anne@audioinkradio.com.