Matchbox Twenty

Matchbox Twenty is back in the game with their new release North. They changed direction from their usual stance while still showcasing their best qualities.

The band members are now married with families and it reflects in the lyrics on North.

Each song has a mood and story that carries listeners through. The majority of tracks are about a relationship that has a bumpy road, but is still fighting on.

“Parade” has lyrics such as, “There is so much more that you could see if you would just stick around,” emphasizing that he wants to keep trying to hold onto his relationship.

Matchbox Twenty has strong, vibrant lyrics and instruments that only complement Rob Thomas’ vocals throughout North.

However, reaching “Put Your Hands Up” takes a new turn in the album. Along with “Like Sugar,” these two tracks take listeners back to the 80s. This could be a plus to some people, but with this kind of music and the rest of North, it doesn’t fit as well.

It’s the vocals and lyrics that make the difference, not the instrumentation. Especially with “Overjoyed” being so delicate and pulling in those who are going through the same struggles. Thomas sings as half of a couple that is in love, while having a hard time getting by.

When artists sing about their own life, that is when fresh, enlightening music is made. Matchbox Twenty does just that.