(Candles Flicker/Other Tongues)

Sweet enough to cause cavities

If Black Swan has taught us anything, it’s that what’s in your mind can be disturbing. Fortunately what is in Nick Murphy’s mind is anything but, with his second full-length album being psychedelic rather than psychotic, and brimming with sunny lyrics and a sweet disposition. After disbanding from The Anyones in 2005, Murphy showed no signs of post-breakup blues when he released his successful first baby Breaking The Light in 2006. What’s In Your Mind is a product of the same sensitive songwriting that proved so successful first time around, bubbling with varied influences like psych-folk, soul, country and pop. Apart from the nostalgic cover reminiscent of the ‘70s, there’s something else here that makes you think back. It’s an album that has the potential to spark memories of those perfect summer days and first loves; it’s just that whimsical, especially with the second honeyed track Candles Flicker. Standout songs include the melodic Dragonflies, with its echoing vocals and mysterious bent, while Blemish On The ‘Scape is slightly haunting and moody before we’re taken back to that happy alt-country vibe with Sunny. Repeat plays enrich the songs’ staying power, as more influences can be milked out of their layered construction. If you never got around to listening to his debut, What’s In Your Mind is as good as any other introduction into Murphy’s repertoire of songs, which speak of a world of vulnerability and wistfulness that even the most practical person can’t deny.

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SAM HAGAMAN

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