Broken Bells emerged in 2009 as a captivating and unexpected collaboration between two distinct pillars of modern music: acclaimed producer and multi-instrumentalist Brian Burton, known professionally as Danger Mouse, and James Mercer, the revered singer-songwriter and frontman of the indie rock band The Shins. The duo's formation was sparked by a mutual admiration and a shared desire to explore new sonic territory outside their primary projects, blending Mercer's melodic guitar work and introspective lyricism with Burton's sophisticated, genre-blurring production. Their partnership quickly proved to be a potent creative force, capturing immediate attention with their debut single, "The High Road," later that year.

Their self-titled debut album, Broken Bells, arrived in March 2010 to critical acclaim, debuting at number seven on the Billboard 200 chart. The record masterfully fused psychedelic pop, soulful grooves, and futuristic rock, establishing a signature sound that felt both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Tracks like "The Ghost Inside" and "October" showcased the seamless integration of Mercer's plaintive vocals with Burton's lush, detailed soundscapes. For live performances, the duo expanded their lineup, initially recruiting musicians including Nate Walcott and Nik Freitas from Conor Oberst's Mystic Valley Band, and later solidifying a touring band with Dan Elkan and Jon Sortland.

Following their successful debut, Broken Bells released the Meyrin Fields EP in 2011, offering a glimpse into their continued experimentation. Their sophomore studio album, After the Disco, arrived in 2014, refining their collaborative vision with a cohesive theme of romantic melancholy set against a backdrop of sleek, disco-tinged rhythms and orchestral flourishes. The title track and lead single became a standout, further cementing their reputation for crafting meticulously produced, emotionally resonant music. After an extended hiatus during which both principals focused on other endeavors, including Burton's work with Michael Kiwanuka and Mercer's continued output with The Shins, the duo quietly returned.

In 2022, Broken Bells released their third studio album, Into the Blue, marking a confident and evolved return. The record delved into darker, more atmospheric textures while maintaining their core melodic strengths, exploring themes of anxiety, isolation, and hope. The album demonstrated the enduring nature of their partnership, proving that their collaborative spark remained vibrant after more than a decade. Broken Bells continues to operate as a compelling and distinct artistic outlet for both Brian Burton and James Mercer, a project defined by its sophisticated synthesis of two unique musical minds into a singular, evocative sound.