What makes Shakin' Like a Human Being by Kim Mitchell notable?

This album includes the hit single 'Patio Lanterns', which reached No. 1 on the Canadian charts and became an enduring anthem of summer gatherings. The record's commercial success helped further elevate Mitchell's status as a staple in the Canadian rock scene during the 1980s. Released in 1986, Shakin' Like a Human Being marked Kim Mitchell's third studio album, following his successful 1984 release, Akimbo Alogo. At this point, Mitchell was solidifying his solo career after leaving the band Max Webster, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Canadian rock music.

Who is Shakin' Like a Human Being for?

Shakin' Like a Human Being works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, thoughtful reflective moments and catchy melodic hooks.

How many songs are on Shakin' Like a Human Being?

Shakin' Like a Human Being has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Shakin' Like a Human Being

Kim Mitchell · 1986

40 min · 10 tracks · hard rock

A vibrant blend of rock grooves and catchy hooks that encapsulates the spirit of mid-80s Canadian music.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Patio Lanterns — As the album's standout single, this track captures a nostalgic summer vibe with its infectious chorus and relatable themes of love and celebration.
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Get Lucky (Boys & Girls) — The opening track sets an upbeat tone for the album, combining energetic guitar riffs with playful lyrics that reflect youthful exuberance.
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In My Shoes — This song showcases Mitchell's lyrical introspection while maintaining a catchy melody, making it a highlight of personal reflection amid the album's energetic pace.

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 showcases solid songwriting and production typical of its era but lacks standout depth.

What we noticed

The album opens with a punchy guitar riff in 'Get Lucky', establishing a high-energy tone that persists through the first half.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the chorus, enhancing the melodic hooks.
The tempo fluctuates throughout, with 'Patio Lanterns' serving as a mid-tempo anthem that contrasts with the faster-paced songs preceding it.

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

steady, consistent energy levels
thoughtful reflective moments
catchy melodic hooks
mid-tempo groove satisfaction

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1986, Shakin' Like a Human Being marked Kim Mitchell's third studio album, following his successful 1984 release, Akimbo Alogo. At this point, Mitchell was solidifying his solo career after leaving the band Max Webster, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Canadian rock music.
Stylistic neighbors: April Wine· Trooper· Rush

Tracklist

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

1 Get Lucky (Boys & Girls) 4:07
2 In My Shoes 3:37
3 Alana Loves Me 4:12
4 Patio Lanterns 3:29
5 That’s the Hold 4:03
6 In Your Arms 4:10
7 City Girl 4:06
8 Easy to Tame 4:16
9 Cameo Spirit 3:35
10 Hitting the Ground 4:58

What to play next

Listen next

Rockland

1989

Go back to

Akimbo Alogo

1984

Full Kim Mitchell discography Artists like Kim Mitchell

hard rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata