Wincing The Night Away
(Sub Pop)
I’m sure you’ve heard of the band that would “change your life.” With just a few words The Shins went from an obscure indie crush to a full blown commercial love story. They are known for their orginal brand of sleepy-garage rock that you might’ve caught your mom humming along to from time to time.
Singer/songwriter James Mercer and company are back and this time they’re not in it for you. They’re not here to save your life, they simply want you to know that you can learn from your mistakes and failed relationships. “Phantom Limb,” the first single, is sure to catch your attention with it’s groovy chorus of “ooh’s and ahs.” “Sea Legs” is a departure from what you may have come to expect and a great surprise with it’s heavy grooves and synth beats pulling you to the dancefloor. “Red Rabbits” may remind you of the dreamy nature of previous works; Mercer seems to want to give up, warning “I might just give the dark side a try.” “Turn On Me” chronicles the end of a once pleasant relationship saying “You had to know I was fond of you though I knew you masked your distain.”
Part of Wincing’s charm is its ability to make you comfortable while hearing a very uncomfortable situation being played out. This is a band unafraid to try new things and skeptics of the band should do the same and ignore the hype. Every track stands seperate from the bunch and the overall tone isn’t at all as overwhelming as some breakup songs can be. The familiarity is what will keep long-time fans listening and get newcomers tapping their toes along. — Naimah Holmes