What makes Shake the Spirit by Elle King notable?

Shake the Spirit received positive reviews from critics and debuted at number 16 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying King's position in the music industry. Its blend of genres resonated with fans and critics alike, reflecting a growing trend toward genre-blending in contemporary country and Americana music. Released in January 2018, Shake the Spirit marks Elle King's second studio album, following her successful debut, Love Stuff, which established her as a rising star in the Americana and country music scenes. After gaining significant attention from hits like 'Ex's & Oh's,' this album showcases her continued evolution as an artist, exploring deeper personal themes and a broader musical palette.

Who is Shake the Spirit for?

Shake the Spirit works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, raw vulnerability and defiance and for late-night drives.

How many songs are on Shake the Spirit?

Shake the Spirit has 13 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

Shake the Spirit

Elle King · 2018

50 min · 13 tracks · country music

A vibrant mix of Americana and blues rock, blending heartfelt lyrics with a spirited, foot-stomping energy.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Baby Outlaw — This track combines catchy melodies with a rebellious spirit, showcasing King's distinctive vocal delivery and playful lyrical style that captures her unique persona.
→
Shame — With its raw honesty and emotional depth, this track highlights King's ability to convey vulnerability while maintaining a strong, defiant tone.
→
Naturally Pretty Girls — This song stands out for its empowering message about self-acceptance and beauty, wrapped in a catchy hook that resonates well with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends genres effectively but doesn't push boundaries, resulting in solid yet familiar songwriting.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a lively tone, and the first half maintains a consistent tempo before slowing down in the latter half.
Several tracks feature prominent guitar riffs and rhythmic clapping, creating an upbeat, danceable feel.

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: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

dynamic journey with emotional peaks
raw vulnerability and defiance
for late-night drives
energetic sing-along moments
varied pacing keeps engagement

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
dislike emotional lyrical depth

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 2018, Shake the Spirit marks Elle King's second studio album, following her successful debut, Love Stuff, which established her as a rising star in the Americana and country music scenes. After gaining significant attention from hits like 'Ex's & Oh's,' this album showcases her continued evolution as an artist, exploring deeper personal themes and a broader musical palette.
Stylistic neighbors: Brandi Carlile· Kacey Musgraves· Margo Price