THE SHINS EPK 

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The Shins have been an influential band in the indie rock scene since their founding in 1996. Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the brainchild of singer, songwriter, and producer, James Mercer, the Shins have experienced great success. Although the lineup has changed since its formation, Mercer has continued to keep the band’s sound authentic, and unique. Known for their simplicity, and no frills performances, this band has garnered a large, diverse fan base over the years. They are regarded as one of the most critically acclaimed indie rock acts, and have stayed true to their independent roots even while gaining mainstream success.

 

Beginning with their first and second albums Oh, Inverted World, and Chutes and Too Narrow released in 2001 and 2003 respectfully, they have experienced great commercial success. Their hit single off of Oh, Inverted World, titled “New Slang,” was featured in the movie Garden State (2004), and this gave them an extreme amount of popularity, which helped them to gain a strong and loyal following. Their music has frequently been utilized in other movies and advertisements, including a widely popular McDonalds ad, which aired in the 2002 Winter Olympics.

 

The Shins became indie rock icons almost instantly. All of their albums have sold tremendously well, and their third album Wincing the Night Away (2007), peaked at number two on the Billboard 200, and received a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Rock Album. After a five year hiatus, James Mercer reunited the band to release a fourth studio album titled Point of Morrow (2012), which featured hit song “Simple Song,” that reached within the top 10 on the Billboard Alternative Songs Chart, and the album reached number three on US charts overall. Now, after another five year hiatus, the band has finally released their fifth album titled Heartworms (2017). This album has already received positive reviews by both critics and fans alike, and is proving to be a commercial success.