What makes Shake by The Thing notable?

'Shake' received widespread acclaim within the jazz community, praised for its bold approach to genre blending. The album's unique sound contributed to the ongoing evolution of free jazz in Europe, influencing newer artists and earning a spot on various year-end lists for best jazz albums. When 'Shake' was released in 2015, The Thing was well-established within the Scandinavian jazz scene, following their acclaimed album 'Evergreen' from 2014. This album marked a continuation of their exploration into improvisation and eclectic influences, solidifying their reputation for energetic performances and innovative soundscapes.

Shake works well if you're into frenetic bursts of chaotic energy, exploratory soundscapes that challenge norms and dynamic shifts in intensity.

How many songs are on Shake?

Shake has 7 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Released 11 years ago this October

Shake

The Thing · 2015

51 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A frenetic blend of free jazz, punk energy, and avant-garde experimentation that pushes boundaries while honoring tradition.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Viking Disco / Perfection — This track encapsulates the album's vibrant energy with its infectious rhythm and playful melodies, showcasing The Thing's signature improvisational prowess.
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Aim — At over thirteen minutes, this expansive piece allows the band to explore intricate themes and dynamics, highlighting their ability to maintain tension throughout extended improvisation.
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Til jord skal du bli — This composition stands out for its hauntingly beautiful melody contrasted with abrasive textures, exemplifying the band's skill in merging contrasting musical ideas.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's energetic improvisation and genre-blending make it a notable entry in contemporary jazz.

What we noticed

The album features rapid tempo shifts, with tracks often transitioning abruptly from frenetic sections to quieter, more contemplative moments.
Improvisation plays a key role, as many sections feel spontaneous and unstructured, creating a sense of unpredictability.

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: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

frenetic bursts of chaotic energy
exploratory soundscapes that challenge norms
dynamic shifts in intensity
immersive tracks that demand attention

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek predictable, calm listening

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Shake' was released in 2015, The Thing was well-established within the Scandinavian jazz scene, following their acclaimed album 'Evergreen' from 2014. This album marked a continuation of their exploration into improvisation and eclectic influences, solidifying their reputation for energetic performances and innovative soundscapes.
Stylistic neighbors: The Necks· Sonny Simmons· Peter Brötzmann

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Viking Disco / Perfection 6:31
2 Til jord skal du bli 8:28
3 The Nail Will Burn 2:43
4 Sigill 5:41
5 Aim 13:18
6 Bota Fogo 7:28
7 Fra jord er du kommet 7:23

What to play next

Listen next

Again

2018

Go back to

Boot!

2013

Full The Thing discography Artists like The Thing

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata