Broken Bells

Sometimes, when multiple musicians who are each masterfully skilled come together, the results are … masterfully disappointing. Too much ego, not enough artistry, as the case often is. Luckily, Danger Mouse and the Shins’ James Mercer are much better than that, with their work as Broken Bells arguably being some of the best music either has in their respective bodies of work. Artfully arranged, sweeping and emotive, the perfect score for that introspective indie film you say defines you when you need some cred, Broken Bells’ music is still infectiously catchy above all else. What that means is that, essentially, the songs are going to be as good live as they are on the album, if not better. - Brien Overly