Shins fans can be forgiven for thinking that James Mercer would never make another record under the moniker ever again. But a new Shins record—the first since 2007’s Wincing The Night Away—is indeed in the works, and will be released next year on Mercer’s Aural Apothecary label, with an assist from Columbia Records. The Shins these days is essentially a Mercer solo project, with all original members replaced by hired guns. But recording under the old name presumably means that Mercer’s new music falls in line with his old sound.
Fans can find out for themselves by catching the band on its upcoming tour. Dates below:
08/08/11 – Eugene, OR – W.O.W. Hall
08/09/11 – Bend, OR – The Domino Room
08/10/11 – Portland – The Doug Fir Lounge
08/12/11 – San Francisco, CA – Outside Lands Festival
09/22/11 – Toronto, ON – Phoenix Concert Theatre
09/23/11 – Philadelphia, PA – Popped! Festival
09/24/11 – Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club
10/15/11 – Pensacola, FL – DeLuna Festival