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In anticipation of the new release, Port of Morrow, The Shins have released a track “Simple Song” featuring an expanded sonic landscape and revamped line up. Although when frontman James Mercer’s vocals enter in, there’s no mistaking the musical foundation that has been dormant since 2007’s Wincing the Night Away. Midway through, things drop out to provide a playful interlude complete with choral harmonies behind Mercer’s crooning. He sings how it’s a simple song to say what you’ve done. The poetry continues with the lyrics, You feel like an ocean made warm by the sun.
Modest Mouse drummer Joe Plummer and Eric Johnson of the Fruit Bats appear on the song, along with “two former bandmates” according to the KEXP blog. Port of Morrow was recorded over the past year in Los Angeles and Portland, with Mercer securely at the helm, providing songwriting, vocals and most instruments throughout. A preorder is now available on iTunes, with an instant download of “Simple Song” and a B-side bonus track part of the package. As part of the newly announced Coachella line up, the band will also tour with additional dates in 2012. The touring band includes Yuuki Matthews of Crystal Skulls (bass), Jessica Dobson (guitar), Richard Swift (keyboards) and Joe Plummer (drums).
