Shaking the Habitual: The Knife's Masterpiece The Knife is a Swedish electronic music duo consisting of Olafur Arnalds and Maja Ratkje. Their latest album, Shaking the Habitual, has been widely praised for its innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics. In this review, we will explore the various aspects of this masterpiece and why it deserves all the accolades it has received. Firstly, let's talk about the music itself. The album is a departure from The Knife's previous work, which was more focused on electronic dance music (EDM). Shaking the Habitual features a more experimental sound that incorporates elements of avant-garde, post-rock, and even some pop influences. This new direction has resulted in an album that is both challenging and rewarding for listeners who are willing to embrace it. One of the standout tracks on the album is "Full of Fire." The song features a driving beat and haunting vocals that build to a crescendo of intensity. It's a perfect example of how The Knife has managed to create something both beautiful and unsettling at the same time. Another highlight is "A Tooth for an Eye," which features a sample from a children's song that has been twisted into something darker and more sinister. This track showcases The Knife's ability to take familiar sounds and turn them on their head, resulting in something entirely new and unique. In addition to the music, Shaking the Habitual also features thought-provoking lyrics that explore themes of identity, gender, and politics. The album cover itself is a nod to feminist art, featuring a nude female figure with her arms raised in defiance. This visual representation of empowerment sets the tone for the rest of the album, which deals with issues such as patriarchy, capitalism, and colonialism. One of the most impressive things about Shaking the Habitual is how it challenges listeners to think critically about the world around them. The Knife have managed to create an album that not only sounds great but also makes you question your own beliefs and assumptions. This level of intellectual engagement is rare in modern music, and it's what sets Shaking the Habitual apart from other albums in its genre. Another aspect of the album that deserves mention is the packaging. The 3LP set includes a free MP3 download, as well as posters and other promotional materials. This attention to detail shows that The Knife care about their fans and want to provide them with more than just the music itself. It's this kind of thoughtfulness that has helped establish The Knife as one of the most respected and influential bands in the world of electronic music. In conclusion, Shaking the Habitual is a masterpiece that deserves all the praise it has received. From its innovative sound to its thought-provoking lyrics, this album challenges listeners to think critically about the world around them while also providing an incredibly rewarding listening experience.