Broken Bells

Broken Bells is a project featuring Brian Burton, the artist/producer better known as Danger Mouse and The Shins lead vocalist and guitarist James Mercer. Critically acclaimed as individuals this meeting of minds was hotly anticipated upon its announcement.

The Ghost Inside is the 2nd single from their self-titled debut album. Coming on like an ambient Midnight Vultures era Beck before raising thoughts of Empire of the Sun dating Lykke Lee watching Air, the result is a rather sublime pop song. Deflecting closer to the beats of Danger Mouser than that of the indie pop of The Shins, it's a collaboration that works rather well. Vocally it's a joy, more akin to a New Order/Shins drink off.

While not ground breaking, there is reason to expect good things from Broken Bells. The Ghost Inside says just that.