When musicians evolve, they can lose track of themselves and their original sound. While some groups have fallen to this ever–demanding, genre–bending nature of modern music, The Shins have managed to tame it. Their latest effort, Port of Morrow, features equal parts synth bloops and acoustic twangs, distinguished by James Mercer’s alternatively soothing and engaging voice. While remarkably cohesive as a whole, certain tracks still stand out, especially those not focused on Mercer's love life. At times both haunting and jaunty, Port of Morrow doesn’t belabor many points, marking a triumphant return for the ever–changing Shins.
4/5 Stars
