The Shins are an American indie rock band formed in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1996. Known for their unique blend of pop sensibilities, catchy melodies, and poetic lyrics, the band has amassed a loyal following over the years. Their music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, and they have earned critical acclaim for their distinctive sound and songwriting. With six studio albums to their name, The Shins have produced a wealth of memorable songs throughout their career. In this article, we will be counting down the top 10 best The Shins songs of all time. From the timeless indie pop classic “New Slang” to the anthemic indie rock hit “Simple Song”, these songs showcase the band’s versatility and range. Join us as we explore the best of The Shins and celebrate their enduring legacy in the indie rock scene.
10. Turn On Me
“Turn On Me” by The Shins is a lively indie rock song from their 2007 album, “Wincing the Night Away”. The song is characterized by catchy guitar riffs, upbeat drums, and frontman James Mercer’s distinct vocals. The lyrics describe the singer’s fear of being betrayed by someone close to him, as he pleads for honesty and loyalty. The chorus features a catchy sing-along melody that is sure to get stuck in your head.
9. Saint Simon
“Saint Simon” by The Shins is a melodic and introspective indie pop song from their 2003 album, “Chutes Too Narrow”. The song features intricate guitar work, a steady drumbeat, and James Mercer’s signature vocals. The lyrics are poetic and mysterious, with references to tarot cards and symbolism. The chorus features a haunting refrain that showcases Mercer’s emotive singing.
8. Caring is Creepy
“Caring is Creepy” by The Shins is a melancholic indie rock song from their 2001 debut album, “Oh, Inverted World”. The song features a sparse arrangement of acoustic guitar, simple drumbeat, and James Mercer’s haunting vocals. The lyrics explore themes of isolation and disillusionment, with the refrain “Weird divided by weird equals normal”. The song is a standout track on the album, showcasing The Shins’ unique blend of indie rock and pop sensibilities.
7. Pink Bullets
“Pink Bullets” by The Shins is a dreamy and romantic indie pop song from their 2003 album, “Chutes Too Narrow”. The song features acoustic guitar, subtle piano, and James Mercer’s emotive vocals. The lyrics tell a story of lost love and longing, with a metaphorical chorus comparing memories to “pink bullets”. The song showcases The Shins’ ability to create evocative and poetic music.
6. Sleeping Lessons
“Sleeping Lessons” by The Shins is an epic and ambitious indie rock song from their 2007 album, “Wincing the Night Away”. The song starts with a slow and atmospheric introduction before launching into a driving beat, intricate guitar work, and James Mercer’s soaring vocals. The lyrics explore themes of escapism and self-discovery, with the chorus urging the listener to “Learn to forget”. The song is a standout track on the album, showcasing The Shins’ ability to create complex and powerful music.
5. Australia
“Australia” by The Shins is a whimsical and upbeat indie pop song from their 2007 album, “Wincing the Night Away”. The song features a catchy guitar riff, lively drumbeat, and James Mercer’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics paint a picture of a fantastical Australia, with references to kangaroos, opals, and desert landscapes. The song is a fan favorite and a standout track on the album.
4. Phantom Limb
“Phantom Limb” by The Shins is a catchy and infectious indie rock song from their 2007 album, “Wincing the Night Away”. The song features a driving drumbeat, jangly guitar riffs, and James Mercer’s emotive vocals. The lyrics explore themes of nostalgia and lost love, with the chorus lamenting “What’s so good about a phantom limb?” The song was a commercial success and helped solidify The Shins’ status as indie rock darlings.
3. The Riffle’s Spiral
“The Rifle’s Spiral” by The Shins is a dark and atmospheric indie rock song from their 2012 album, “Port of Morrow”. The song features a haunting piano melody, eerie synthesizers, and James Mercer’s emotive vocals. The lyrics are cryptic and mysterious, with references to a “spiral” and a “rifle”. The song is a departure from The Shins’ usual upbeat pop sensibilities, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment.
2. Simple Song
“Simple Song” by The Shins is an anthemic and uplifting indie rock song from their 2012 album, “Port of Morrow”. The song features a driving drumbeat, soaring guitar riffs, and James Mercer’s powerful vocals. The lyrics explore themes of family and redemption, with the chorus proclaiming “I know that things can really get rough when you go it alone”. The song was a critical and commercial success, earning The Shins a wider audience and cementing their status as indie rock royalty.
1. New Slang
“New Slang” by The Shins is a timeless indie pop classic from their 2001 debut album, “Oh, Inverted World”. The song features acoustic guitar, delicate piano, and James Mercer’s heartfelt vocals. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, with references to “golden living dreams of visions” and “dancing bear carpets”. The song gained widespread popularity after appearing in the film “Garden State” and has since become a defining song of the indie rock genre.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
