Come Feel Me Tremble is a rough collection of songs that Westerberg recorded by himself in his home.

The song "Crackle & Drag", which was recorded in both its louder original take and quieter alternate version, is about the poet Sylvia Plath.

Westerberg was struck by the calm and considered preparations Plath took before committing suicide.

[1] "What a Day (For a Night)" was written for Bonnie Raitt, who didn't want it,[2] while "Pine Box" is about Westerberg's father's experience of World War II and its lasting impact.

[3] Come Feel Me Tremble received generally positive reviews from critics.