Cage the Elephant was gaining significant traction in the music industry around the time of the live recording for “Punchin' Bag (Unpeeled)”. This performance is part of their 2017 project "Unpeeled," which features stripped-down renditions of songs from their previous albums, including their 2015 release "Tell Me I'm Pretty." The "Unpeeled" sessions highlight the band's versatility as they present their tracks in a more intimate setting. Notably, "Tell Me I'm Pretty" marked a creative evolution for the band, showcasing their collaboration with producer Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys. During this period, Cage the Elephant was recognized for their energetic live performances, blending various genres, and their increasing popularity was underscored by accolades like Grammy nominations, reflecting their artistic growth and appeal in the alternative rock scene.