(Sub Pop)
When bands create a successful first album, there is immense pressure in the creation of a sophomore album to again please their audiences and keep them captivated.??
Thankfully, The Shins' sophomore album, , offers dynamic melodies, lyrics, tempos and instrumentation.??The first track, \Kissing the Lipless,"" appears to be a mellow, acoustic melody, but bits and pieces of the electric guitar start to take over the seemingly calm song. The soothing tone quickly turns into an emotional, high-intensity ballad. The listener is exposed to the quite pleasing juxtaposition of musical elements and tempos. The first track sets the tone for the entire album; the listener does not know what to expect next, but anxiously waits for The Shins' upcoming tracks.
""Young Pilgrims"" demonstrates the interesting melodic structure exhibited by the group.?? Accompanied by an acoustic guitar and country-sounding electric guitar, James Mercer's insightful lyrics illustrate how incredibly vibrant he is as a singer-songwriter. The resonance of country twang also repeats itself in ""Pink Bullets,"" and ""A Call to Apathy"" shows that The Shins' roots from Albuquerque, N.M. remain influential in their music.??The Shins are able to combine many styles in their music and create their own unique sound.
The Shins can be placed at both ends of the spectrum-they can be high-energy and intense in one track while the next track can be peaceful and surreal. ""Fighting in a Sack"" allows the band to cut loose with an upbeat tempo and the introduction of a saxophone and harmonica, and empowers Mercer to shout harmonious ""bums"" in the song. The track brings the listener back to '60s rock 'n' roll, but this carefree mood changes quickly by the last song.??""Those to Come"" is beautifully constructed with a simple acoustic arpeggio melody; a quiet hint of keyboard and a soft drum. James Mercer's lyrics captivate listeners who want to hear more than of the ending of a 33-minute compilation.
The only downfall of the album is its abrupt conclusion. With only 33 minutes of music, the listener may not feel fulfilled and will probably yearn to hear more dynamic songs The Shins have artistically created.??Not only was each song written creatively, but each track, although extremely different, connects well and becomes united with the other, creating a solid album. The Shins' is pleasing because the different sounds they produce with each track complement each other and create an artfully captivating album.
