Broken Bells "Broken Bells"

I've literally had this for over a month and I couldn't bring myself to listen to it. For those who don't know, Broken Bells is comprised of James Mercer (The Shins) and Danger Mouse (Gnarls Barkley). They made a record that sounds like The Shins with some half-hearted synths and faux production effects. And I don't say that just because of Mercer's voice. These songs are all mid-tempo, front & center guitar strummers that don't get too intense one way or another. If this album was a baseball player it would be Livan Hernandez. It ain't sexy but it will eat up 6 innings every time it takes the mound. Don't ignore the Broken Bells buzz but tone it down considerably.

Must hear: The High Road

(Release Date: 3/9/10)