How James Mercer of The Shins Overcame Heartbreak and Recorded ‘Chutes Too Narrow’ In His Basement

In the early 2000s, The Shins generated addicting pop rock tracks based around simplistic chord structures. With hints of the 1960s and excelled by James Mercer’s brilliant songwriting, The Shins became indie icons. Originally, The Shins was a side project that became their main focus. They released their debut album, Oh, Inverted World, in 2001. At the time, Mercer and the band were located in New Mexico. Their debut album was released a few years before Mercer would turn 30. He felt pressure to do something with his life, as his youthfulness was fleeing. He took a big chance and threw his all into The Shins. Shortly after the debut album was released, he moved the band to Portland, Oregon, after a relationship had fallen apart in New Mexico.

Mercer had befriended Isaac Brock, lead singer and guitarist of Modest Mouse. Brock helped convince Mercer to make the move and also helped get the band signed to Sub Pop Records. Mercer bought a house and built an at-home recording studio in the basement. It was small and cheap, but allowed the band to work at their own pace on their next release. They could record at any hour, especially utilizing overnight sessions. It was in this basement studio that The Shins recorded their second album, Chutes Too Narrow, released in 2003.

The Shins Find Success in the Portland Scene

Chutes Too Narrow echoes Mercer’s lingering heartbreak from his previous relationship and also chronicles his move to Oregon. In this second album, you can hear Mercer get more personal than on the previous record. His lyrical style is usually more descriptive and metaphorical, but his messages are clear on this record. Chutes Too Narrow was released in 2003, and The Shins were on the verge of massive success within indie rock. In 2004, Zack Braff’s film Garden State featured a scene where Natalie Portman and Braff praise The Shins’ song “New Slang” from their debut album.

Following this, Sub Pop Records re-released the debut album under the label. Over night, The Shins were now at the forefront of the indie rock movement in the 2000s. This brought more attention to their most recent release, Chutes Too Narrow. The Shins were set up for even further success with Wincing The Night Away, released in 2007. James Mercer took a risk and sought to do something big with his life, shaking off heartbreak. It paid off as The Shins are indie rock legends, influencing a generation of musicians.

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