Review: The Shins Port of Morrow

Image courtesy of Columbia Records

The alternative band The Shins have released a new album called Port Of Morrow and it is arguably the best album so far this year. The band has established themselves over the past decade as a progressive rock band that isn’t scared to cross boundaries. They have proved it again on this disk.

On this new CD they sound like a cross between Bob Dylan and Radiohead and every possible emotion is covered. From happy love stories like “Simple Song” to beautiful sad ballads like “For a Fool,” there’s something here for everybody. The mastermind behind the band, James Mercer, puts life into every song. When he sings, “Young and bright, but now just a dim light,” you’ll feel he’s reflecting on his fame and that he’s possibly getting tired of it all.

Of course, not every song is sad, depressing, and other songs like “Fall of 82′” rejoice in life and reflect on a much simpler time when there were no worries. The songs themselves, fortunately, do not limit themselves to guitar, base and drums, but also feature piano, trumpet and a variety of other unrecognizable sounds that add to the refreshing experience. Overall, the album is a treat to listen to. If you’re a fan of alternative music, this is a must to buy. Grade: B+

–Nicholas Lozupone, WNHS-TV

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