What makes Cleopatra by The Lumineers notable?

Cleopatra debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing the band's growing popularity. The album received positive reviews from critics, including a notable feature in Rolling Stone highlighting its lyrical depth and emotional resonance, further establishing The Lumineers as key figures in contemporary folk music. Released on April 8, 2016, Cleopatra is The Lumineers' second studio album following their self-titled debut in 2012. At this point in their career, they had already achieved significant commercial success and were looking to solidify their place in the folk rock genre with a more mature sound.

Who is Cleopatra for?

Cleopatra works well if you're into nostalgic reflections on love, steady pacing for relaxed listening and intimate storytelling through song.

How many songs are on Cleopatra?

Cleopatra has 14 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Cleopatra

The Lumineers · 2016

42 min · 14 tracks · folk rock

A poignant blend of heartwarming folk melodies and introspective storytelling that captures the essence of love and loss.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ophelia — This track encapsulates the album's exploration of relationships through its catchy chorus and evocative lyrics about longing and nostalgia, making it a standout single.
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Cleopatra — The title track serves as a narrative centerpiece, weaving together themes of regret and devotion with a haunting melody that lingers long after it ends.
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Angela — In this track, the interplay between melancholy and hope is beautifully articulated, showcasing the band’s ability to blend storytelling with rich instrumentation.
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Sick in the Head — This song's introspective lyrics delve into mental health struggles, offering a raw and honest perspective that resonates with many listeners, highlighting the album's emotional range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album features strong storytelling and solid craftsmanship but lacks standout uniqueness.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the fourth track introduces a shift with a more somber tone.
Several songs feature layered instrumentation that builds gradually, creating emotional crescendos before resolving into quieter moments.
The lyrics often tell stories from different perspectives, with recurring themes of love and loss that tie the album together.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

nostalgic reflections on love
steady pacing for relaxed listening
intimate storytelling through song
for quiet evenings
thoughtful moments of introspection

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party tracks
prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on April 8, 2016, Cleopatra is The Lumineers' second studio album following their self-titled debut in 2012. At this point in their career, they had already achieved significant commercial success and were looking to solidify their place in the folk rock genre with a more mature sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Mumford & Sons· Of Monsters and Men· The Head and the Heart