There’s just something about this Portland-based alternative band that never disappoints. The Shins’ latest album, “Port Morrow,” is almost as spectacular as their last album, “Wincing the Night Away,” for which they earned a Grammy nod. So if you love “New Slang,” “Phantom Limb” and other Shins hits, you will certainly want to download the entirety of this newly released masterpiece. 

The most popular song off the album so far, “Simple Song,” is upbeat and offers the group’s signature lead vocals paired with strong, rhythmic instrumentals, making for an extremely catchy tune. Definitely a must-download that you’ll end up playing on repeat. 

As for the other songs on the album, “It’s only life” is sure to be wildly popular, as it provides a slower, more emotional melody perfect for a relaxed listening experience. 

“Bait and Switch,” also has a very appealing rhythm and the vocals shine on the track as always, though “Simple Song” and “It’s only life” are definitely the standouts of the album. 

“September” is also a bit darker and more intensely emotional compared to the other songs on the album, but the almost flawless execution of the vocals and instrumentals still makes this a very enjoyable tune.

The only track that falls a little short of expectations is “The Rifle’s Spiral.” The instrumentals are just too busy, and there are some odd background noises that don’t compliment the vocals at all. However, this misstep is overshadowed by the excellence of “Port of Morrow” as a whole and the strength of the other, more popular songs on the album. 

In short, alternative rock/ indie fans should be excited for music festival season because The Shins will be playing at Coachella and Sasquatch and tracks from “Port of Morrow” will surely be on their set lists. 

Reach Whitney Tolar here.