[rating=9.00]
It has been a long five years for fans of The Shins, eager for them to put out a new record. And though frontman James Mercer keeps himself busy with side projects (Broken Bells), when it comes to the Shins, we’ve only received a smattering of new tracks here and there since 2012’s Port of Morrow. With their new release, Heartworms, we can finally scratch the itch and dive into a new collection of fresh, whimsical Shins tunes. Heartworms taps into over-the-top, 80s synth, 70s psychedelic trippiness, and Brian Wilson-esque symphonic harmonies. It is so bright it’s practically glowing, with layered, playful arrangements that embrace distortion and spontaneity.
It’s not hard to pick up on the little touches of Mercer’s other endeavor Broken Bells in Heartworms. That element of fantasy and that electronica touch is more present here than on any past Shins record. Still, their DNA is intact with those all-consuming, larger than life, sweeping harmonies and choruses that make you feel like you could suddenly take flight. Heartworms is dramatic and romantic, its songs building to epic heights and bursting with color. From the funk-pop groove of “Name For You” to the off-the-walls giddiness of “Cherry Hearts” and the retro pop gem title track, there is so much to love.
Even though it’s sugary, Heartworms is serious in its construction. As we’re used to with the Shins, the melodies are incredibly tight, even when the synth gets warped and Mercer’s higher register gets a little loopy. It all feels intentional, like a room perfectly decorated with strategically placed tchotchkes and off-beat antiques. There’s a lot going on in these songs, but they never feel messy or out of place.
The most interesting moments come with “The Fear” and “Mildenhall”. “The Fear” has a dreamy, otherworldly Radiohead sound to it, and the way it ambles toward its end will have you following, grasping for more and more. “Mildenhall” is the sparsest track on Heartworms, with Mercer doing his best folksy thing as he sings about coming of age. It’s nostalgia at its sweetest. Again, more please.
When it’s been a few years since a beloved band has put new music out, there’s always the chance for disappointment. But with Heartworms, the Shins have given us a release so sublime, it could tide us over for another five years.
