What makes Rat Race by Enter Shikari notable?

'Rat Race' received significant airplay on BBC Radio 1 and was well-received by critics for its bold commentary on societal issues. The track exemplifies Enter Shikari's influence on the electronicore scene, blending various genres while maintaining a distinct political edge. In 2013, Enter Shikari was on the cusp of mainstream recognition, following their critically acclaimed album 'A Flash Flood of Colour'. 'Rat Race' served as a standalone single, showcasing the band's evolution in sound and lyrical depth while continuing to push boundaries within the post-hardcore genre.

How many songs are on Rat Race?

Rat Race has 4 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Rat Race

Enter Shikari · 2013

12 min · 4 tracks · post-hardcore

A sonic whirlwind of intricate guitar riffs and pulsating rhythms, layered with socially conscious lyrics that challenge the status quo.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Rat Race — The title track encapsulates the album's critique of modern society, featuring a relentless drive that mirrors its themes of urgency and disillusionment.
→
Radiate — With its anthemic chorus and dynamic shifts, this track weaves together hope and frustration, embodying the essence of Enter Shikari's message.
→
The Paddington Frisk — This brief opener sets the tone for the album's exploration of personal and societal struggles through its aggressive instrumentation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Foothills

Higher than 29% of albums we've rated

This EP combines energetic instrumentation with varied vocal styles, creating a distinctive sound within its genre.

What we noticed

The title track employs a spoken-word section that breaks up the instrumentation, adding a layer of narrative depth.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry in the catalog that doesn't fit more prominent roles.
Themes: consumerist anxiety· digital surveillance culture· post-recession disillusionment
Career context: In 2013, Enter Shikari was on the cusp of mainstream recognition, following their critically acclaimed album 'A Flash Flood of Colour'. 'Rat Race' served as a standalone single, showcasing the band's evolution in sound and lyrical depth while continuing to push boundaries within the post-hardcore genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Architects· While She Sleeps· Underoath