Brian Burton, or as he's more commonly known, Danger Mouse, and James Mercer of The Shins have teamed up for their first collaborative, self-titled album Broken Bells. Both artists have created their own unique niche in the current music scene and this album showcases each of their talents beautifully.
After ten years as the front man for The Shins, Mercer's voice is instantly recognizable which can make this album sound an awful lot like just another Shin's album, but that is not entirely a bad thing. Everything that's likable about The Shins seems to be present on this album with the added bonus that Danger Mouse is part of it, too.
And while no track in particular seems to sound quite as experimental as these collaborations are often wont to be, it's still a good, listenable album that doesn't betray any awkwardness. Danger Mouse is the ultimate collaborator who brings a fresh perspective to Mercer's earnest falsetto. These two seem to work together like an old married couple. And again, that's not entirely a bad thing.
To listen to the album before its release on March 9th, visit:
NPR music
or:
Myspace
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This is so fabulous, I listened to it like three times today at work!! James Mercer, welcome back!
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