Frankly, The Shins could make a music video about a snail inching around for four minutes and I would still love it to pieces. In my opinion, James Mercer has one of the most creative minds in the music world and The Shins’ videos are a testament to that.
“It’s Only Life” is no exception, and if you ever wondered what that creature on the cover of Port of Morrow is, this video answers your questions. Kind of.
“It’s Only Life” is a beautiful track from the album wrought with emotion, and the video only emphasizes that. Directed by Hiro Murai (who also did St. Vincent’s “Cheerleader”), it’s a melancholy adventure alongside a boy who reminds me of either “Where the Wild Things Are” or a twisted, realistic “Calvin & Hobbes.”
His neighborhood has been torn apart by a band of these dark-robed, horned creatures and he and his dog are the only survivors (except for our very own Mercer, who’s being dragged by his feet by one of the creatures very slowly throughout).
So the little boy dons some war paint, red helmet with antlers and matching red cape, and sets out to enjoy his world solo – starting off with free ice cream, of course! It’s adorable, really, and an interesting juxtaposition to Mercer’s crooning “I’ve been down the very road you’re walking now/It doesn’t have to be so dark and lonesome.”
I’m in love already. Check out the video below while I watch it for the 10th time.
