In January 2012, The Shins performed "Caring Is Creepy" on David Letterman's show, marking a significant moment in their career as they were promoting their fourth studio album, "Port of Morrow," which was released shortly thereafter. Before this performance, the band had experienced notable changes, including the departure of bassist Dave Hernandez and the addition of new members, a shift that greatly influenced their sound and dynamics. The appearance on Letterman highlighted the band's return after a five-year hiatus since their last album, "Wincing the Night Away." This performance not only showcased their evolution as a band but also reintroduced them to a wider audience, setting the stage for their reinvigorated presence in the indie rock scene. "Caring Is Creepy," originally featured on their debut album "Oh, Inverted World," provided a nostalgic connection to their earlier work while also highlighting their growth as artists.