Is The Spark a good place to start with Enter Shikari?

Yes, The Spark is recommended as a starting point for new Enter Shikari listeners. Dynamic electronicore sound intertwines with post-hardcore energy, creating a vibrant tapestry of political and personal themes. Released on September 22, 2017, The Spark marks Enter Shikari's fifth studio album and a significant evolution in their sound. Following the experimental approach of their previous album, The Mindsweep, this record showcases a more refined blend of genres while maintaining their politically charged lyrical style. It represents a pivotal moment as they continue to gain recognition beyond the hardcore scene.

Who is The Spark for?

The Spark works well if you're into steady pacing with hopeful energy, engaging journey with resolution and invigorating tracks for motivation.

How many songs are on The Spark?

The Spark has 11 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

The Spark

Enter Shikari · 2017

41 min · 11 tracks · post-hardcore

Dynamic electronicore sound intertwines with post-hardcore energy, creating a vibrant tapestry of political and personal themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Sights Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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Live Outside — This track stands out for its infectious chorus and anthemic message about embracing life beyond societal constraints, encapsulating the album's optimistic spirit.
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Take My Country Back — With its direct political commentary and driving rhythm, this track exemplifies Enter Shikari's commitment to tackling pressing social issues through their music.
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An Ode to Lost Jigsaw Pieces (In Two Movements) — This expansive piece showcases the band's artistic depth, balancing introspective lyrics with dynamic shifts in instrumentation that reflect emotional complexity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong contrasts in energy and style, with notable dynamics and thematic depth.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a high-energy tempo with aggressive instrumentation, while the fourth track introduces a slower, more reflective pace.
The final track concludes with an extended instrumental section that gradually fades out, leaving a lingering atmosphere.

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: 7/10
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 pacing with hopeful energy
engaging journey with resolution
invigorating tracks for motivation
dynamic soundscapes for focus

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid cohesive listening experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debuted at number one in the UK, marking a significant rise in mainstream appeal.
Themes: political disillusionment· chaotic soundscapes
Career context: Released on September 22, 2017, The Spark marks Enter Shikari's fifth studio album and a significant evolution in their sound. Following the experimental approach of their previous album, The Mindsweep, this record showcases a more refined blend of genres while maintaining their politically charged lyrical style. It represents a pivotal moment as they continue to gain recognition beyond the hardcore scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Architects· While She Sleeps· Underoath