Matchbox 20's "North"

We all know who Matchbox 20 is. They're not "new" by any means. Their classics like "3 AM" and "Unwell" are known for being rightfully overplayed on the radio for years now. As some of you may have realized, this alternative rock band from the 90's took a break from being Matchbox 20. Rob Thomas released some of his own music solo, and there was no Matchbox 20 for years. After several years of being on hiatus, the members of Matchbox 20 decided it was time to return to the studio as Matchbox 20, and to reunite. I was so psyched about this because I've always been a fan of Matchbox 20. "Exile On Mainstream" will always be one of my staple albums.

On August 28th, 2012, Matchbox 20 released their album, "North". They took a really long time making the album, and they definitely made it worth the wait. I love this album. A lot. This band is so incredibly talented. Some of my very favorites off of "North" are, "Overjoyed", "The Way", "Parade", "Radio", and "Put Your Hands Up". Every song on this album is great, though. Not one skip-worthy song on it. It's definitely one of my go to albums right now. It's catchy, well produced, and makes you feel something. I love albums like that. As Rob Thomas would say, "it takes you somewhere." I also love that you can clearly distinguish the instruments. The drums sound like drums, the guitars sound like guitar, and the bass sounds like the bass. Awesome beats and riffs throughout the album.

Their background vocalist and guitarist, Kyle, sang fronting vocals for "The Way", and he did a beautiful job. That song is one of my very favorites on the album, and he sounds incredible. I love that they let him sing a song on the album, making them seem like a well rounded band, rather than "Rob Thomas and his band".

Matchbox 20 isn't the same band that they were in 1995. But how could you expect them to be? Any successful artist must grow and evolve over time. This album is different than their previous albums, but no less astonishing.

Do yourself a favor, and get "North".

5/5 stars.