On February 10, 2012, The Shins performed "Australia" live at the KEXP studio in Seattle, during a pivotal moment in their career. This performance came shortly after the release of their fourth studio album, "Port of Morrow," which premiered on March 20, 2012. "Port of Morrow" was significant as it marked the band’s first full-length album in nearly five years since "Wincing the Night Away" in 2007. It represented a shift for The Shins, featuring a more polished sound and new production techniques, primarily due to the involvement of Greg Kurstin, who helped to expand their sonic palette. The live performance showcased the band’s ability to evoke rich, layered melodies in a stripped-down setting, emphasizing frontman James Mercer's distinct vocal delivery and songwriting prowess. The KEXP session further solidified The Shins' reputation for engaging live performances, capturing the attention of both long-time fans and new listeners.