The Shins have finally released their fourth studio album after five years and have continued their musical endeavors in favor of past patrons and quickly enticed indie rock eavesdroppers. James Mercer, the founder of The Shins, is the only original member remaining in the band. Mercer produced the album, along with "Producer of the Year" Grammy nominee Greg Kurstin. By Basement DJ: Andrew Leider
Former members Dave Hernandez and Marty Crandall are included on some tracks. The album also includes contributions from drummer Joe Plummer (Modest Mouse, Mister Heavenly), drummer Janet Lee Weiss (Wild Flag, Qusi, Sleater-Kinney), singer-songwriter Nik Freitas, and many other talents exhibiting an extensive, diverse variety of music. Mercer implements his practical and vivid views of life as the basis of the lyrics, like in the aptly titled song "It's Only Life". Mercer sings, "I've been down the very road you're walking now/ It doesn't have to be so dark and lonesome/ Takes a while but we can figure this thing out/ And turn it back around." The single "Simple Song" is said to be about his wife and their life together and hints at the departure of his former band-mates. The entire album is full of unique musical influences, from psychedelic and surf rock to electronic and acoustic, giving it an original feel that can reach out to any sort of music listener.
Recommended If You Like: Death Cab For Cutie, The Strokes, Modest Mouse
Essential Tracks: "Simple Song," "September," "Port of Morrow"