The new year brings a fresh slate of music that will try to inspire, intrigue, and surprise us. Young the Giant’s new album Mind Over Matter had me dancing in my room ever since it was released earlier this month. Any artist’s sophomore effort is always a tough one — it can either make or break them.
After a strong 2011 debut with the singles “Cough Syrup” and “My Body,” lead vocalist Sameer Gadhia is stronger than before on Mind Over Matter. The album manages to effectively display the power and range of Gadhia’s vocal ability and is a nice exemplar of the band’s growth. The focus has shifted for the band. Although the lyrics are strong, it is more musically driven and upbeat, solidfying their spot in pop rock.