Always On My Mind: Been Stellar’s Wonky Groove Gets Under Your Skin

Been Stellar are an indie rock quintet hailing from New York City, formed around 2017 by Sam Slocum and Skyler Knapp, who later were joined by Nico Brunstein and Gigi Giobbi. Signed to the UK label Dirty Hit, they first made serious waves with their debut album Scream from New York, NY in 2024—a record that drew praise across outlets like Pitchfork, Paste, and Stereogum for its raw depiction of city life and sharp, guitar-driven energy.

“Always On My Mind”Their latest single, Always On My Mind, is the third installment in a scorching summer of releases from the band, following Adored and Breakaway. The track is anchored by an irresistibly catchy riff that hooks you from the very first bar, instantly brewing a familiar yet unexpected groove.

Vocalist Sam Slocum explains the lyrical core captures a cyclical longing—a classic love sentiment tinged with sadness or anxiety, mirroring the insecurities of devotion: “I need you, I want you because you’re always on my mind.” That duality, blurred between affection and obsession, gives the song emotional depth and relatable nuance DIY.

Band Page: https://www.instagram.com/beenstellar/?hl=en