Indie rock has a way of capturing the essence of emotions and storytelling through its unique soundscapes and heartfelt lyrics. If you’re a fan of The Shins, you’ll love exploring these 18 bands and artists that share similar vibes and musical styles. Check out the list below and dive into their discographies!
1. Death Cab for Cutie
Death Cab for Cutie is known for their introspective lyrics and melodic tunes. Popular songs like “I Will Follow You into the Dark” and “Soul Meets Body” from the album Plans have made them a staple in the indie rock scene.
2. Band of Horses
Band of Horses combines haunting vocals with lush instrumentation. Their albums Everything All the Time and Infinite Arms feature beloved tracks like “The Funeral” and “Laredo.”
3. The Decemberists
The Decemberists are celebrated for their storytelling prowess and folk-infused indie rock. Albums such as Picaresque and The Crane Wife include hits like “The Mariner’s Revenge Song” and “O Valencia!”
4. Iron & Wine
Iron & Wine, the stage name of Sam Beam, offers a soothing blend of folk and indie rock. Songs like “Naked as We Came” from Our Endless Numbered Days and “Boy with a Coin” from The Shepherd’s Dog are fan favorites.
5. Fleet Foxes
Fleet Foxes’ harmonies and rich, acoustic soundscapes are reminiscent of The Shins. Their self-titled debut album and Helplessness Blues include tracks like “White Winter Hymnal” and “Helplessness Blues.”
6. Modest Mouse
Modest Mouse has a distinctive sound that blends indie rock with experimental elements. Albums like Good News for People Who Love Bad News and We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank feature hits such as “Float On” and “Dashboard.”
7. Broken Bells
Broken Bells is a collaboration between James Mercer of The Shins and Danger Mouse. Their self-titled debut album includes popular tracks like “The High Road” and “October.”
8. Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend’s upbeat and eclectic indie rock has garnered a dedicated following. Albums like Contra and Modern Vampires of the City feature hits such as “A-Punk” and “Diane Young.”
9. Phoenix
Phoenix hails from France and brings a polished, synth-infused indie rock sound. Their album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix includes popular songs like “1901” and “Lisztomania.”
10. MGMT
MGMT is known for their psychedelic and electronic influences in indie rock. Their debut album Oracular Spectacular features hits like “Electric Feel” and “Kids.”
11. Grizzly Bear
Grizzly Bear’s intricate arrangements and harmonies create a unique listening experience. Albums like Veckatimest and Shields include tracks such as “Two Weeks” and “Yet Again.”
12. The National
The National’s deep, baritone vocals and melancholic sound have made them indie rock icons. Albums like Boxer and High Violet feature beloved songs like “Fake Empire” and “Bloodbuzz Ohio.”
13. Arcade Fire
Arcade Fire’s anthemic and grandiose indie rock has won them critical acclaim. Albums such as Funeral and The Suburbs include hits like “Wake Up” and “Sprawl II (Mountains Beyond Mountains).”
14. Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens blends folk, indie rock, and orchestral elements in his music. Albums like Illinois and Carrie & Lowell feature tracks such as “Chicago” and “Should Have Known Better.”
15. Beirut
Beirut’s music is characterized by its fusion of indie rock with world music influences. Albums like Gulag Orkestar and The Flying Club Cup include songs like “Postcards from Italy” and “Nantes.”
16. The New Pornographers
The New Pornographers are known for their power-pop and indie rock blend. Albums like Twin Cinema and Brill Bruisers feature tracks such as “Use It” and “Brill Bruisers.”
17. Tame Impala
Tame Impala, led by Kevin Parker, offers a psychedelic take on indie rock. Albums like Lonerism and Currents include hits like “Elephant” and “The Less I Know the Better.”
18. Real Estate
Real Estate’s jangly guitars and laid-back vibe make them a standout in the indie rock genre. Albums like Days and Atlas feature tracks such as “It’s Real” and “Talking Backwards.”
Explore these artists and bands to find new favorites that resonate with your love for The Shins. Happy listening!
