What makes The Lion's Roar by First Aid Kit notable?

This album received significant critical acclaim, landing on several year-end best lists and marking a peak in their early career. Additionally, the single 'Emmylou' became particularly popular, showcasing their ability to merge classic influences with modern sensibilities. The Lion's Roar is First Aid Kit's second studio album, released after their breakthrough debut, The Big Black & The Blue. At this point in their career, the Swedish duo had already begun to carve a niche in the folk scene, gaining international attention for their distinctive sound and heartfelt songwriting.

Who is The Lion's Roar for?

The Lion's Roar works well if you're into steady mid-tempo contemplative flow, rich storytelling through harmonies and for reflective afternoons.

How many songs are on The Lion's Roar?

The Lion's Roar has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

The Lion's Roar

First Aid Kit · 2012

42 min · 10 tracks · folk music

A harmonious blend of traditional folk melodies and contemporary storytelling, rich with sibling harmonies and poignant lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Lion’s Roar — Opening with soaring harmonies that set the tone for the album, this track encapsulates the duo's signature sound while addressing themes of courage and vulnerability.
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Emmylou — 'Emmylou' stands out as a tribute to musical legends, blending nostalgia with a contemporary twist that resonates deeply with listeners.
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In the Hearts of Men — This track showcases a more introspective side of First Aid Kit, combining haunting melodies with lyrics that explore human emotion and connection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, with effective pacing and emotional depth.

What we noticed

The opening track features a gradual build-up with layered harmonies that set the tone for the album's folk sound.
Each song typically follows a verse-chorus structure, allowing for clear storytelling and emotional resonance.
The instrumentation often includes acoustic guitars and strings, creating a warm, organic texture throughout the record.
Several tracks feature dynamic shifts in intensity, such as 'Emmylou,' which contrasts soft verses with a more powerful chorus.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

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 mid-tempo contemplative flow
rich storytelling through harmonies
for reflective afternoons
intimate moments of quiet connection

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer short standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: The Lion's Roar is First Aid Kit's second studio album, released after their breakthrough debut, The Big Black & The Blue. At this point in their career, the Swedish duo had already begun to carve a niche in the folk scene, gaining international attention for their distinctive sound and heartfelt songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors: The Civil Wars· Of Monsters and Men· Laura Marling