Music 10K: 62. Oh, Inverted World

Oh, Inverted World by The Shins
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

The refreshing music of The Shins takes indie pop to a level near Death Cab For Cutie if not surpassing them entirely. I would say their music is reminiscent of the past, but also simultaneously pushes it in a new direction.

"Caring Is Creepy" is an oddly titled track, and the song is what I'd deem a college indie pop hit. Mercer's vocals are urgent, but openly fresh and boyish.

"One by One All Day" definitely recalls boy bands of old like The Beatles. The incorporation of subtle and sometimes singular electronic elements amidst the use of real instrumentation puts a quirky twist on the music that makes for a playful and unique listening experience.

The gliding guitars in "Weird Divide" and vocals in "New Slang" croon melodically in a folk-friendly way that very much puts you at ease. "New Slang" in particular is a lovely tune with a touch of mystery. Of course it was made popular by the movie Garden State, but I think it ultimately stands on its own and brings to the realm of melodies an air of folk gentleness and intelligence.

"Know Your Onion!" is a pop rock tune very similar to some of the tracks The Presidents of the United States of America have written, but definitely has its own vibe. It's upbeat and lively in a way that picks you up.

There's a sonic distance to "The Celibate Life." I almost feel as if the audio for this tune is deliberately made to sound as if its coming from a different room than the band is playing in. It's almost like this tune is one room removed.

"Girl on the Wing" plays with electronics again. The band is very good about not overdoing it. The acoustics of real instruments dominate while subtle electronic dialing punctuates certain places, never over-riddling the music with more effects than it should.

"Your Algebra" is very different. It's a somber and brooding tune with an interesting play with electronics and children laughing towards the end of the track. It doesn't last long and sounds more like an experiment if anything.

"Pressed in a Book" has a great beat. The band has this keenness in its way of knowing when and where to be forceful with musical stresses and when to back off.

Tying off the album is one of my favorite songs: "The Past and Pending." I actually used this one in a slideshow of personal photos. The acoustic guitar is simple and the vocals are like a breeze. The horns and flute conjure up something dreamy and idealistic with a simplicity and gentleness that is almost divine. It's like laying back on the grass on a warm summer afternoon under a beautiful willow tree and a bright blue sky.

Wonderful album by a thoughtful band.