What makes Crab Day by Cate Le Bon notable?

The album received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many reviewers praising its inventive sound and lyrical depth. Crab Day marked a significant moment for Le Bon as it charted in the UK Albums Chart, further establishing her presence in the contemporary music scene. Crab Day is Cate Le Bon's third studio album, following her critically acclaimed release, Mug Museum, in 2013. At this point in her career, Le Bon was solidifying her unique artistic voice, blending elements of folk, pop, and experimental music while gaining recognition for her distinct lyrical style and innovative production.

Crab Day works well if you're into whimsical melodies for introspection, steady flow for focused listening and surreal nostalgia in each track.

How many songs are on Crab Day?

Crab Day has 10 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Crab Day

Cate Le Bon · 2016

36 min · 10 tracks · traditional folk music

Whimsical melodies intertwine with surreal lyrics, creating a dreamlike soundscape that dances between folk and avant-garde.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Crab Day — The title track encapsulates the album's whimsical spirit through its playful instrumentation and an exploration of existential themes within a vibrant sonic landscape.
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I Was Born on the Wrong Day — This track stands out for its poignant lyrics and catchy melody, addressing feelings of alienation with a deceptively upbeat arrangement that contrasts its thematic weight.
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How Do You Know? — With its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, this song exemplifies Le Bon's ability to blend emotional vulnerability with inventive musicality.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends whimsical melodies with surreal lyrics, showcasing Le Bon's unique artistic voice.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features layered vocals and unconventional instrumentation, setting a whimsical tone.
Several tracks incorporate abrupt shifts in tempo and mood, such as the transition from the upbeat 'Wonderful' to the more introspective 'Find Me'.

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: 8/10
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

whimsical melodies for introspection
steady flow for focused listening
surreal nostalgia in each track
short tracks with playful charm

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy anthems
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Crab Day is Cate Le Bon's third studio album, following her critically acclaimed release, Mug Museum, in 2013. At this point in her career, Le Bon was solidifying her unique artistic voice, blending elements of folk, pop, and experimental music while gaining recognition for her distinct lyrical style and innovative production.
Stylistic neighbors: Angel Olsen· Julia Holter· Sufjan Stevens