Mercer's back, but the old magic of crafting insanely-catchy indie pop tunes is gone. These songs are still good, resembling what could pass for catcy shins indie pop, and will remind you of The Shins back catalog, but there isn't much that stands out here save the "simple song". I like it, but i also greatly value potential, and i think mercer's is about dried up. (For peak shins, see "chutes too narrow".)

40 Mark Strasse is just such a fantastic track. Don't compare it to previous albums. It's not the same, and it's very good.

Sometimes I feel like a bad Shins fan when I tell myself this is my favorite Shins album. Then I put in my headphones and start to listen to it again, and realize how awesome it is to have a band as consistently awesome as the Shins still making incredible music!!!!

@gojetsgo You're definitely in the extreme minority. I like this album, but to me it is without a shadow of a doubt their weakest. It's a credit to them that even their weakest is still an enjoyable listen.

Am I the only one who thinks this is their best?

well I accidentally listened to this once more and, enjoyed it more. sorry bout my sour april remark!

People are too quick to put this down, I've really enjoyed and will be coming back no doubt, great album, and I feel The Shins are one of the most consistent bands of the past decade, more so other artists mentioned here like Muse and The Strokes!

I don't see how an individual not rating it as high as others takes away from the quality. It's not the record of the century, but in a year that I haven't been wildly impressed with I'm okay seeing it in the top 10 at this point.

I revoke my earlier doubt. This album is beautiful. No Way Down is the song of the summer... or is it Simple Song? September? Not sure. Love it these days!

I've enjoyed this an incredible amount in the last little while. On par with Chutes. 40 Mark Strasse is baaaaalllllin!