A Great Big Pile Of Leaves introduced their sophomore full-length, You’re Always On My Mind, and its lyrical content paired with a laid-back vibe makes for a nearly perfect summer release. Following their 2010 issue of Have You Seen My Prefrontal Cortex, this record highlights the band’s staple bright guitar solos along with their deep, mellow vocals.
You’re Always On My Mind features the group’s new addition of Matt Fazzi, formerly of Taking Back Sunday, and the third track, “Pet Mouse,” involves a brief guest appearance from Motion City Soundtrack’s Justin Pierre. Yet, even with the new accompaniments and the easy listening experience of the album, the one critique that I could offer is how A Great Big Pile Of Leaves could have taken more of a risk. While it would have been nice to see just a touch more oomph to follow Have You Seen My Prefrontal Cortex, it seems like the band members are reconfiguring their footing with their new addition.
A Great Big Pile Of Leaves have crafted a smooth indie rock record that’s fit for the season. The fifth song, “Back To School” appeals as the catchiest tune on You’re Always On My Mind with the driving chorus, “I’m not ready for it to be over/Where did the summer go?” Overall, the 10-track album provides 30 minutes of rich melodies that won’t leave fans of A Great Big Pile Of Leaves disappointed, but will leave them wanting more.
In A Word: Mellow
