Glorious news came down the pike today, and we are happy to bring it to you. The Shins released the first single from their forthcoming album — the first one since 2007′s Wincing The Night Away (Man, it’s really been more than four years!?) — Port of Morrow today, and it’s a soaring, anthemic sort of song from a band not really known for its bombast. But the simple, affecting arrangements are there, as is James Mercer’s unmistakable croon, which does some impressive stretching on this track. “Simple Song” is, really, the perfect kind of track to re-introduce people to the band, as its catchy and flashy and really quite impressive. There are stellar guitar licks, awesome background vocals and some delightful keyboard work. Man, I can’t wait for Port of Morrow, which is out March 20 on Columbia and Mercer’s own Aural Apothecary label. “Simple Song” feels new and familiar at the same time for this longtime fan of The Shins. Listen below!

[Facebook]  [Official Site]  [Twitter]

–Sean