30 Facts About The Shins

The Shins: A Brief Overview

The Shins, an American indie rock band, have captured the hearts of many with their unique sound and poetic lyrics. Formed in 1996, they have a rich history filled with interesting tidbits. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic band.

Formation and Early Days

Understanding the origins of The Shins gives insight into their musical journey.

1. The Shins were formed by James Mercer in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1996. Mercer was previously part of the band Flake Music.
2. The band's name, "The Shins," was inspired by a family in the musical "The Music Man," which Mercer admired.
3. Initially, The Shins were a side project for Mercer, who was still active with Flake Music at the time.

Breakthrough and Success

The Shins' rise to fame is marked by several key milestones.

4. Their debut album, "Oh, Inverted World," released in 2001, was a critical and commercial success.
5. The song "New Slang" from their debut album gained widespread recognition after being featured in the film "Garden State."
6. Natalie Portman's character in "Garden State" famously claimed that "New Slang" would "change your life," boosting the band's popularity.

Albums and Music

The Shins have produced several albums, each with its own unique flavor.

7. Their second album, "Chutes Too Narrow," released in 2003, received critical acclaim and solidified their place in the indie rock scene.
8. "Wincing the Night Away," their third album, debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart in 2007.
9. The band's fourth album, "Port of Morrow," released in 2012, marked a significant lineup change with Mercer being the only original member.
10. In 2017, The Shins released "Heartworms," showcasing a more experimental sound compared to their earlier work.

Band Members and Lineup Changes

The Shins have seen several lineup changes over the years.

11. James Mercer is the only constant member of the band, serving as the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter.
12. Original members included Jesse Sandoval on drums, Marty Crandall on keyboards, and Dave Hernandez on bass.
13. In 2009, Mercer announced a major lineup change, parting ways with Sandoval and Crandall.
14. The new lineup included musicians such as Richard Swift, Joe Plummer, Yuuki Matthews, and Jessica Dobson.

Musical Style and Influences

The Shins' music is known for its distinctive style and influences.

15. Their sound is often described as a blend of indie rock, pop, and folk.
16. Influences include bands like The Beach Boys, The Smiths, and The Cure.
17. Mercer's songwriting is known for its introspective and often cryptic lyrics.

Awards and Recognition

The Shins have received numerous accolades throughout their career.

18. "Wincing the Night Away" was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album in 2008.
19. The band has been featured in several "best of" lists by publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork.
20. Their music has been used in various films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing their cultural impact.

Side Projects and Collaborations

Members of The Shins have been involved in various other musical endeavors.

21. James Mercer formed the side project Broken Bells with producer Danger Mouse in 2009.
22. Broken Bells released their self-titled debut album in 2010, which received positive reviews.
23. Mercer has also collaborated with artists like Modest Mouse and The Black Keys.

Live Performances and Tours

The Shins are known for their energetic live performances.

24. They have performed at major music festivals such as Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo.
25. The band is known for their engaging stage presence and often reinterprets their songs during live shows.
26. In 2012, they embarked on a world tour to promote "Port of Morrow," playing in countries across Europe, Asia, and North America.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some lesser-known facts about The Shins that fans might find intriguing.

27. The band's song "Simple Song" was featured in the video game "Rock Band 3."
28. James Mercer once worked as a professional carpenter before fully committing to his music career.
29. The Shins' music video for "The Rifle's Spiral" was directed by Jamie Caliri and features stunning stop-motion animation.
30. Despite their success, The Shins have maintained a relatively low profile, focusing more on their music than on media appearances.

Final Glimpse at the Shins

The Shins, a band that’s left an indelible mark on indie rock, have a story filled with unique facts and memorable moments. From their humble beginnings in Albuquerque to their rise to fame with hits like "New Slang," they’ve consistently delivered captivating music. Their journey is a testament to the power of creative evolution and musical innovation. Whether it’s their lyrical depth or distinctive sound, The Shins continue to resonate with fans old and new. As you dive into their discography, you’ll find a treasure trove of musical gems that showcase their artistic prowess. So, next time you listen to one of their tracks, remember the rich history and fascinating facts that make The Shins truly special.