What makes Shake Me Down by Cage the Elephant notable?

Shake Me Down was well-received by critics and fans alike, debuting at number 3 on the Billboard 200 chart. Its lead single, 'Shake Me Down,' became a defining track for the band, earning significant radio play and contributing to their growing popularity in the alternative rock genre. Released as the band's third studio album, Shake Me Down marked a significant moment in Cage the Elephant's career, following their breakthrough self-titled debut and the critically acclaimed Thank You, Happy Birthday. This album built on their established sound while showcasing greater maturity and lyrical depth, solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.

How many songs are on Shake Me Down?

Shake Me Down has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Shake Me Down

Cage the Elephant · 2010

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant mix of garage rock and blues-infused melodies that capture a sense of youthful rebellion and introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Shake Me Down — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of vulnerability and defiance, featuring infectious hooks and introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners.
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Carry Me In — This track stands out with its haunting melody and emotional delivery, exploring themes of longing and connection, showcasing the band's lyrical capabilities.
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Shake Me Down — As a repeat track with varying arrangements, it highlights different facets of the song's emotional landscape, emphasizing its versatility and depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

44 /100

Lowland

Higher than 4% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting but suffers from repetition and lacks cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The title track 'Shake Me Down' features a prominent guitar riff that drives the song, while the verses alternate between a laid-back groove and an explosive chorus.
The second track 'Carry Me In' introduces a more subdued tempo with layered vocal harmonies, contrasting sharply with the energy of the first track.
The single is presented twice in this catalogued version, which may affect the perception of its overall length and impact.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 3/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single marked a significant moment in the band's career, enhancing their recognition.
Career context: Released as the band's third studio album, Shake Me Down marked a significant moment in Cage the Elephant's career, following their breakthrough self-titled debut and the critically acclaimed Thank You, Happy Birthday. This album built on their established sound while showcasing greater maturity and lyrical depth, solidifying their place in the alternative rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Arctic Monkeys· The Black Keys· Tame Impala