The Shins were formed in 1996 as a James Mercer side
project. They became a full time band in 2001 when they were signed to the SubPop label. They released Oh, Inverted World the same year to
great critical acclaim. The band moved from Albuquerque ,
New Mexico to Portland , Oregon
and lost some members along the way. They recorded the much-admired follow-up Chutes Too Narrow in 2003. Between two
highly regarded albums and the Garden
State soundtrack, the
band was at another level. The band then went back into the studio and recorded
Wincing the Night Away in 2007. It
was largely a solo James Mercer recording, for the band underwent some more
personal changes. I loved this album. It was my favorite album of 2007 by far.
It even got a well earned Grammy nomination. After touring the album the band went in
different directions. Mercer teamed with Danger Mouse in 2010 and released an
album under the name of Broken Bells .
It was quite a surprise to hear last year that Mercer was putting more Shins
music together with Port of Morrow, which
was just released. He has a new backing band but the music is as incredible as
it has always been. It was released on Mercer’s own label Aural Apothecary. Please enjoy the single from the new album
“Simple Song”
I am thrilled that Mercer has decided to put out some new
Shins music and I hope that the next record doesn’t take another five years.
Many fans can’t wait that long. I encourage you to listen to the band “that
will change your life”.
Update: One of my favorite bands and people, Harper Blynn has just released a new album. It is fantastic and available for free on their web site if you click the link on their name that I provided. Even though they are offering it for free, you should donate to the cause. They have just come off the road opening for Ingrid Michaelson and I am positive that they now have a whole new legion of fans.
Larry adds: If you are interested in learning more about what is going through James Mercer's head as he crafts his songs check out this terrific article in which he explains his thinking regarding each Port of Morrow song.
Update: One of my favorite bands and people, Harper Blynn has just released a new album. It is fantastic and available for free on their web site if you click the link on their name that I provided. Even though they are offering it for free, you should donate to the cause. They have just come off the road opening for Ingrid Michaelson and I am positive that they now have a whole new legion of fans.
Larry adds: If you are interested in learning more about what is going through James Mercer's head as he crafts his songs check out this terrific article in which he explains his thinking regarding each Port of Morrow song.