When an artist delves into the world of alternative music they often accept the fact that they may fall under the radar. Certain bands, however, acquire an ample fan base—for that of an alternative artist—and strive off the publicity of indie music festivals or random fans acquired off of Spotify and Pandora radio. With that being said, generally, alternative artists who do stand out of their diverse crowd must have an edge. Indie rock group Young the Giant provided this edge with their first, self-named album, climbing the rungs of the alt-rock ladder.

Upbeat and catchy, the track “Cough Syrup” gained them their humble beginnings as well as the renown they currently possess. In light of their most recent album release Mind Over Matter, fans expected the same alt-rock laced with the invigorating, lively aspects of pop that pulled them in originally. Of course, artists should constantly attempt to meet the desires of their fans, but there comes a time when they are simply doing just that: meeting expectations rather than exceeding.

Their sophomore album contains unique, upbeat track such as “Anagram.” The track’s smooth vocals set it apart from the band’s typical borderline punk rock sound. The album presents a surprising amount of diversity. Various moods range from lucid and tranquil, such as on the track “Firelight,” to the predictable, aggressive mood of “Mind Over Matter” and “Teachers.”  While a majority of the tracks may feature vocals that come across as abrasive, the keyboard and bass line offer a more welcoming and almost summery feel.

Young the Giant provides the alternative rock sound familiar to fans, while still able to produce a new streamline of fans with a diversification in their emblematic sound. Through a deviation in predictable indie rock sound, the band is able to assert themselves in the realm of alternative music. Mind Over Matter gives Young the Giant a boost within the obscurity of the indie rock world, and serves as a basis to attract not only long-established fans, but a variety of new fans as well.