It can be hard to figure how bands like the Killers can sweep to success with comparative ease while equally talented acts like the Shins continue to inhabit the fringes. Notwithstanding the by now compulsory appearance on the O.C. it seems the world has largely chosen to ignore James Mercer’s bands languid take on the sound of the sixties. ‘New Slang’ is a crushingly beautiful effort, the ante never lifts beyond the acoustic drifts yet there is enough melodrama within to fill a seasons worth of soap operatics. ‘Gold teeth and a curse for this town were all in my mouth’ is how it begins and no amount of harmonious cooing can distract you from experiencing the singers’ world-weariness. The understated country licks and gentle tambourine scene setter reveal a beating heart among the debris, so much so that despite the sardonic lyrics its quite likely that this perfect piece of pop will put a coiled spring in your step. KD
The Shins – New Slang
More Info: Official & Myspace
Buy Album: [UK] Oh Inverted World
Year: 2001
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