Danger Mouse and Shins frontman James Mercer have just released the first single from this new side project, Broken Bells.  The result is a cool track that is really easy to vibe to and that has been on repeat throughout today.  The project allows for both artists to challenge aspects of themselves that would perhaps not fit in their primary ventures, but meld well.  Mercer expressed appreciation for this freedom. “When you’re the master of your own domain, it’s easy to fall into patterns. But with this, there was a freedom to try stuff and not worry about what it would mean for this identity I’ve created. And it just sounded cool.”

They will be releasing a 10 song self-titled debut on March 8 so check your local record store for that.  For those of you who don’t remember what a cd actually looks like, let alone a physical store that is dedicated to selling tangible music, check it out on itunes.

The band has provided the first single for free.  Enjoy.