In March 2012, when The Shins performed "Simple Song" at the #VEVOSXSW, they were promoting their fourth studio album, "Port of Morrow," which had been released just a few days earlier on March 20, 2012. This marked a significant moment in the band’s career, as it was their first album in nearly five years since "Wincing the Night Away" in 2007. The performance at South by Southwest was part of a larger effort to re-establish their presence in the indie rock scene after a lineup change that saw frontman James Mercer as the sole original member. Notably, "Simple Song" became a defining track for the band during this period, showcasing their evolution while retaining their signature melodic and introspective style. The live recording captures the excitement around their return and the anticipation of a new era for The Shins.