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Editorial Reviews
North marks Matchbox Twenty s fourth full-length studio recording and first all-new album in a decade. "The title refers to us finding our way," says Matchbox Twenty s Paul Doucette. "We went into this record with a lot of material. Many different songs that could have taken us in many different directions. It sort of overwhelmed us for a bit. But, at a certain point, we figured it out. We figured out where North was."
North sees Matchbox Twenty driving their pop-rock sound further forward; magnifying the indelible melodies, crafty lyricism, and glorious hooks that have always defined their multi-platinum body of work. The band Rob Thomas, Paul Doucette, Kyle Cook and Brian Yale, lived together last Summer in a house in Nashville where they all collaborated on the new material before once again joining forces with the Grammy Award-winning producer Matt Serletic at his Emblem Studios in Calabasas, California. The result of their labors stands among Matchbox Twenty s finest, with songs like "Overjoyed" and "Put Your Hands Up" marked by the band s instantly identifiable sonic approach and unadulterated high spirits.
North sees Matchbox Twenty driving their pop-rock sound further forward; magnifying the indelible melodies, crafty lyricism, and glorious hooks that have always defined their multi-platinum body of work. The band Rob Thomas, Paul Doucette, Kyle Cook and Brian Yale, lived together last Summer in a house in Nashville where they all collaborated on the new material before once again joining forces with the Grammy Award-winning producer Matt Serletic at his Emblem Studios in Calabasas, California. The result of their labors stands among Matchbox Twenty s finest, with songs like "Overjoyed" and "Put Your Hands Up" marked by the band s instantly identifiable sonic approach and unadulterated high spirits.
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
84 of 90 people found the following review helpful
Format:Audio CD
Nearly ten years have passed since matchbox twenty released their last full length album, More Than You Think You Are. During that timeframe, the music industry has battled to survive while undergoing a complete makeover in the process. The members of matchbox twenty have kept themselves busy over the past 10 years with various side projects. Lead singer Rob Thomas released two solo albums "Something to Be" and "Cradlesong," which performed very well on the charts while also spawning several number one songs, "Lonely No More," "Ever The Same," and "Someday." Lead guitarist Kyle Cook stepped up to the microphone to handle lead singing duties in his band The New Left that resulted in an underrated EP titled "Let Go" (if you're unfamiliar, check out the songs "Cecelia" & "Wind-Up Girl") before recording additional songs as a solo artist (check out "It Is What It Is"). Former drummer and current rhythm guitarist Paul Doucette crafted a strong debut album under the moniker "The Break & Repair Method." Bassist Brian Yale decided to lay low in Orlando, getting his hair trimmed and working on his golf game in the process.
In between the ten year break between full length albums, matchbox twenty re-convened in 2007 to release a greatest hits package that included 6 new songs. After working with Grammy award-winning producer Matt Serletic on their previous three albums, the group chose to work with Steve Lillywhite and the result was an album that sounded very different from matchbox's previous releases (With the exception of the hooky "These Hard Times"). The album went on to spawn the number one single "How Far We've Come" and matchbox felt reinvigorated, proving they could still be current in a music scene that had changed quite a bit.
Five years later, matchbox twenty returns with the album North to prove they still have what it takes to be relevant in the ever-changing music industry. Working alongside producer Matt Serletic once again, the result is an album that is much more like the band's first three albums while also highlighting a maturation process and proving that matchbox hasn't lost touch with the current trends in pop music. The album plays out as such.
1. Parade- 9/10
Pulsing verses lead up to a strong chorus with solid backing vocals and reverberating guitar riffs. Great way to kick off the album.
2. She's So Mean- 8/10
The first single off the album, this uptempo pop/rock tune is chalk full of hooky guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and catchy lyrics. This song follows the formula of matchbox twenty always releasing an uptempo song as the first single ("Long Day" "Bent" & "Disease" were the first singles on previous releases) and should not be used to judge the sound of the album as a whole. People have voiced concern that this song is a huge step away from matchbox's classic sound, but just as people were concerned about the drastic change in direction when Rob Thomas released "Lonely No More" as his debut single as a solo artist, all fears of an all out change in direction will be quelled after listening to the rest of the album just as they were when songs like "Ever the Same" and "Streetcorner Symphony" were released.
3. Overjoyed- 10/10
Best song on the album, hands down. This is a classic matchbox midtempo ballad that you will not be able to get out of your head. Heartfelt lyrics combine with one of the catchiest choruses Rob Thomas has ever written, and that is saying something! This will be the second single, and it will put everyone's concerns to rest regarding matchbox departing from their classic sound.
4. Put Your Hands Up- 7/10
Synthesized uptempo number that I'm still on the fence about. It's an extremely catchy song with a chorus that is hard to get out of your head, I'm just not sure if I'm a fan of all the strange Nintendo-like sounds going on in the background of this song.
5. Our Song- 9/10
Catchy uptempo number that employs synthesizers similar to the sound Rob Thomas experimented with in the song "Mockingbird" on his second album Cradlesong. This song will be great to hear live when matchbox tours in Winter 2012.
6. I Will- 8/10
Slower acoustic guitar driven ballad that is pleasant to listen to. Not super catchy, but filled with heartfelt lyrics, a soft chorus, and a beautiful piano solo.
7. English Town- 9/10
Haunting midtempo ballad with an extremely memorable piano arrangement. This song reminds me of a slowed down version of "Downfall" (from More Than You Think Are).
8. How Long- 8/10
The Nintendo sounds are present again on this song, but they aren't as emphatic as the sounds used in "Put Your Hands Up." This is a solid midtempo number highlighted by one of the best bridges on the album.
9. Radio- 6/10
Its possible my mind will change regarding this song, but as of right now, this uptempo rock-a-billy tune is my least favorite on the album. The verses aren't that bad, but the payoff at the end of the chorus is not up to par with the rest of the songs on this album.
10. The Way- 10/10
Lead guitarist Kyle Cook handles lead vocals on this beautifully simple midtempo ballad and the result is absolute perfection. Cook last sang lead vocals on a matchbox record during the chorus of the song "Hang" from the band's debut album Yourself or Someone Like You and with results as strong as that song and this current offering, here's to hoping Cook gives Rob Thomas a well-deserved break on future releases to come as well.
11. Like Sugar- 8/10
This midtempo tune has a mysterious vibe to it and sports a sound very different than matchbox's previous works. The catchy chorus of this very chill song makes it a memorable one.
12. Sleeping at the Wheel- 9/10
This closer starts out with an epic drumbeat and sports Thomas singing with his lower vocal register for the verses before going back to his classic tone in the chorus. This song reminds me very much so of U2's classic "Where the Streets Have No Name," which is the greatest complement I could bestow upon this great closer.
BONUS SONGS (*NOT available on the regular version of North for which this review pertains to)
1. I Believe in Everything (Purchase single on Amazon MP3 or iTunes, also available on North Deluxe iTunes & Japanese Import) - 8/10
Solid mid-tempo number with an understated yet catchy chorus with memorable guitar riffs ringing throughout that lead up to a beautifully done bridge and final pre-chorus breakdown.
2. Straight for This Life (Purchase single on Amazon MP3 or iTunes, also available on North Deluxe iTunes & Japanese Import)- 9/10
Beautifully done acoustic ballad that is extremely soothing as a result of the nice tempo and calming background vocals. The emotion in Thomas' vocal is pouring out on this elegant track.
3. Help Me Through This (Japanese Import, German "She's So Mean" B-Side)- 9/10
Beautifully done midtempo track with a great build-up to a rocking chorus. Very catchy and definitely worth the treasure hunt to uncover it.
4. I Don't Wanna Be Loved (Target Exclusive, Japanese Import)- 8-10
Solid midtempo number that utilizes searing guitar riffs that build up to a solid sing-a-long chorus. The synthesizers are present again on this song, but they don't detract from the quality of this track.
5. Waiting on a Train (Target Exclusive, UK Import)- 9/10
Great uptempo track with a super catchy chorus. Definitely worth seeking out for the hardcore matchbox twenty fan.
With the release of the appropriately titled North, the future for this talented quartet looks extremely bright. In a world where the radio is dominated by flash in the pan artists who have no true substance, matchbox twenty is a great reminder that quality musicians are still capable of maintaining successful careers by putting their passion for the art that is music above their desires to make a quick buck. Here's to hoping that this is just the second of many chapters to come in the story that is matchbox twenty.
In between the ten year break between full length albums, matchbox twenty re-convened in 2007 to release a greatest hits package that included 6 new songs. After working with Grammy award-winning producer Matt Serletic on their previous three albums, the group chose to work with Steve Lillywhite and the result was an album that sounded very different from matchbox's previous releases (With the exception of the hooky "These Hard Times"). The album went on to spawn the number one single "How Far We've Come" and matchbox felt reinvigorated, proving they could still be current in a music scene that had changed quite a bit.
Five years later, matchbox twenty returns with the album North to prove they still have what it takes to be relevant in the ever-changing music industry. Working alongside producer Matt Serletic once again, the result is an album that is much more like the band's first three albums while also highlighting a maturation process and proving that matchbox hasn't lost touch with the current trends in pop music. The album plays out as such.
1. Parade- 9/10
Pulsing verses lead up to a strong chorus with solid backing vocals and reverberating guitar riffs. Great way to kick off the album.
2. She's So Mean- 8/10
The first single off the album, this uptempo pop/rock tune is chalk full of hooky guitar riffs, driving drum beats, and catchy lyrics. This song follows the formula of matchbox twenty always releasing an uptempo song as the first single ("Long Day" "Bent" & "Disease" were the first singles on previous releases) and should not be used to judge the sound of the album as a whole. People have voiced concern that this song is a huge step away from matchbox's classic sound, but just as people were concerned about the drastic change in direction when Rob Thomas released "Lonely No More" as his debut single as a solo artist, all fears of an all out change in direction will be quelled after listening to the rest of the album just as they were when songs like "Ever the Same" and "Streetcorner Symphony" were released.
3. Overjoyed- 10/10
Best song on the album, hands down. This is a classic matchbox midtempo ballad that you will not be able to get out of your head. Heartfelt lyrics combine with one of the catchiest choruses Rob Thomas has ever written, and that is saying something! This will be the second single, and it will put everyone's concerns to rest regarding matchbox departing from their classic sound.
4. Put Your Hands Up- 7/10
Synthesized uptempo number that I'm still on the fence about. It's an extremely catchy song with a chorus that is hard to get out of your head, I'm just not sure if I'm a fan of all the strange Nintendo-like sounds going on in the background of this song.
5. Our Song- 9/10
Catchy uptempo number that employs synthesizers similar to the sound Rob Thomas experimented with in the song "Mockingbird" on his second album Cradlesong. This song will be great to hear live when matchbox tours in Winter 2012.
6. I Will- 8/10
Slower acoustic guitar driven ballad that is pleasant to listen to. Not super catchy, but filled with heartfelt lyrics, a soft chorus, and a beautiful piano solo.
7. English Town- 9/10
Haunting midtempo ballad with an extremely memorable piano arrangement. This song reminds me of a slowed down version of "Downfall" (from More Than You Think Are).
8. How Long- 8/10
The Nintendo sounds are present again on this song, but they aren't as emphatic as the sounds used in "Put Your Hands Up." This is a solid midtempo number highlighted by one of the best bridges on the album.
9. Radio- 6/10
Its possible my mind will change regarding this song, but as of right now, this uptempo rock-a-billy tune is my least favorite on the album. The verses aren't that bad, but the payoff at the end of the chorus is not up to par with the rest of the songs on this album.
10. The Way- 10/10
Lead guitarist Kyle Cook handles lead vocals on this beautifully simple midtempo ballad and the result is absolute perfection. Cook last sang lead vocals on a matchbox record during the chorus of the song "Hang" from the band's debut album Yourself or Someone Like You and with results as strong as that song and this current offering, here's to hoping Cook gives Rob Thomas a well-deserved break on future releases to come as well.
11. Like Sugar- 8/10
This midtempo tune has a mysterious vibe to it and sports a sound very different than matchbox's previous works. The catchy chorus of this very chill song makes it a memorable one.
12. Sleeping at the Wheel- 9/10
This closer starts out with an epic drumbeat and sports Thomas singing with his lower vocal register for the verses before going back to his classic tone in the chorus. This song reminds me very much so of U2's classic "Where the Streets Have No Name," which is the greatest complement I could bestow upon this great closer.
BONUS SONGS (*NOT available on the regular version of North for which this review pertains to)
1. I Believe in Everything (Purchase single on Amazon MP3 or iTunes, also available on North Deluxe iTunes & Japanese Import) - 8/10
Solid mid-tempo number with an understated yet catchy chorus with memorable guitar riffs ringing throughout that lead up to a beautifully done bridge and final pre-chorus breakdown.
2. Straight for This Life (Purchase single on Amazon MP3 or iTunes, also available on North Deluxe iTunes & Japanese Import)- 9/10
Beautifully done acoustic ballad that is extremely soothing as a result of the nice tempo and calming background vocals. The emotion in Thomas' vocal is pouring out on this elegant track.
3. Help Me Through This (Japanese Import, German "She's So Mean" B-Side)- 9/10
Beautifully done midtempo track with a great build-up to a rocking chorus. Very catchy and definitely worth the treasure hunt to uncover it.
4. I Don't Wanna Be Loved (Target Exclusive, Japanese Import)- 8-10
Solid midtempo number that utilizes searing guitar riffs that build up to a solid sing-a-long chorus. The synthesizers are present again on this song, but they don't detract from the quality of this track.
5. Waiting on a Train (Target Exclusive, UK Import)- 9/10
Great uptempo track with a super catchy chorus. Definitely worth seeking out for the hardcore matchbox twenty fan.
With the release of the appropriately titled North, the future for this talented quartet looks extremely bright. In a world where the radio is dominated by flash in the pan artists who have no true substance, matchbox twenty is a great reminder that quality musicians are still capable of maintaining successful careers by putting their passion for the art that is music above their desires to make a quick buck. Here's to hoping that this is just the second of many chapters to come in the story that is matchbox twenty.
19 of 19 people found the following review helpful
By mick
Format:Audio CD
Okay, here's the thing: I've read the critics' reviews, I've read the blog reviews, and even the fans' reviews, and now I'm gonna give you the lowdown from a guy who was a fan from "Push" and actively sought-out Tabitha's Secret as a result, then went on to purchase every album, DVD, solo project and the like the members of my all-time favorite group put out. Here's the skinny about "North."
Loved it. It could really just end there, but I'll elaborate, unlike a few of the not-so-good reviews I've read who won't say WHY they don't like it, other than to say it's not old-school MB20. How could it POSSIBLY be old-school, when they've grown and developed new sounds, tastes, experiences over the last decade and a half? To presume you were gonna hear the dripping cynicism of songs like "Kody" and the heartbreaking melody of "3am" is naive, in the extreme. New decade, new sound.
What makes this album special is that it's an evolution of the band. It's eclectic in the extreme, and that just makes it a really fun groove. Give me "Overjoyed" and then hit me with "Put Your Hands Up." A few songs later wind me down with "I Will," then toss me back in the air with "Radio" before setting my teeth on egde with the nasty, sensual sound of "Like Sugar," a song to have slow sex to if there ever was one.
Put it all together, and it just WORKS. No other band could've put an album like this together and still maintain the quality that drove me to them in the first place. Not DREW me to them, DROVE. Because MB20 has always insisted I feel and relate in some way to every sound they've made. And I do.
Loved it. It could really just end there, but I'll elaborate, unlike a few of the not-so-good reviews I've read who won't say WHY they don't like it, other than to say it's not old-school MB20. How could it POSSIBLY be old-school, when they've grown and developed new sounds, tastes, experiences over the last decade and a half? To presume you were gonna hear the dripping cynicism of songs like "Kody" and the heartbreaking melody of "3am" is naive, in the extreme. New decade, new sound.
What makes this album special is that it's an evolution of the band. It's eclectic in the extreme, and that just makes it a really fun groove. Give me "Overjoyed" and then hit me with "Put Your Hands Up." A few songs later wind me down with "I Will," then toss me back in the air with "Radio" before setting my teeth on egde with the nasty, sensual sound of "Like Sugar," a song to have slow sex to if there ever was one.
Put it all together, and it just WORKS. No other band could've put an album like this together and still maintain the quality that drove me to them in the first place. Not DREW me to them, DROVE. Because MB20 has always insisted I feel and relate in some way to every sound they've made. And I do.
17 of 20 people found the following review helpful
By Jane
Format:Audio CD|Amazon Verified Purchase
Like many posters I have been a Matchbox Twenty fan and Rob Thomas solo fan for many years. I have to say that this is their best complete album to date and Rob has never sounded better. I'm seeing a bunch of really excellent reviews for the album from fans on the internet. My reaction on first listen was that outside the two upbeat pop songs, "She's So Mean" and "Put Your Hands Up", the album was very mellow. I call it mellow...some former fans may call it boring. It's all in the eyes of the beholder. On my second listen, I "got it" and I got the vibe they were going for and I really loved it. There are some really awesome songs on here. "Sleeping At The Wheel" may simply be the best song that Rob has ever written and recorded. I can't tell you how special I think that song is. I do hope the band will go out on a limb and release it as a single one day. It will give non-fans a new appreciation for what this band is all about.
Other stand out tracks for me are "Parade" and the Paul Doucette penned "English Town".
Here's one old fan that is so happy with the direction the band has taken. If you are a music lover that can listen to Katy Perry and appreciate the fact that she has some good pop songs and then flip gears and listen to Fleetwood Mac to U2, then I suggest this album might be for you. If you aren't into pop/rock music, then you probably should just skip this one. I will add that when I say pop I get a very Elvis Costello vibe from songs like "Radio" and "Our Song" with a modern twist.
Lastly, I can't wait for the band to start touring. That's where they really shine.
BTW, the critics have never liked Matchbox Twenty. I wouldn't expect them to change their opionion now. Matchbox beats to their own drum and that's how it should be. They've never been the flavor of the month. This is a band that has sold 18 million albums in the US but has never been invited to play on SNL or The Grammys or been on the cover of Rolling Stone yet they are still here and I have a feeling will do very well with this release. There are people out there that appreciate great music without being told that it is great. I have my own ears to make that decision myself.
Other stand out tracks for me are "Parade" and the Paul Doucette penned "English Town".
Here's one old fan that is so happy with the direction the band has taken. If you are a music lover that can listen to Katy Perry and appreciate the fact that she has some good pop songs and then flip gears and listen to Fleetwood Mac to U2, then I suggest this album might be for you. If you aren't into pop/rock music, then you probably should just skip this one. I will add that when I say pop I get a very Elvis Costello vibe from songs like "Radio" and "Our Song" with a modern twist.
Lastly, I can't wait for the band to start touring. That's where they really shine.
BTW, the critics have never liked Matchbox Twenty. I wouldn't expect them to change their opionion now. Matchbox beats to their own drum and that's how it should be. They've never been the flavor of the month. This is a band that has sold 18 million albums in the US but has never been invited to play on SNL or The Grammys or been on the cover of Rolling Stone yet they are still here and I have a feeling will do very well with this release. There are people out there that appreciate great music without being told that it is great. I have my own ears to make that decision myself.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great cd!
Awesome CD! Bought this for my boyfriend, who is a huge Matchbox 20 fan. We listened to it completely, and I really enjoyed it! Glad I purchased it!
Published 44 minutes ago by Noellesmom
5.0 out of 5 stars
Slowly becoming a favorite
I have every Matchbox Twenty CD, this is slowly moving up to become a new favorite. I still have favorite tracks I like to listen to over & over. Read more
Published 6 days ago by Debby C Spencer
1.0 out of 5 stars
Regurgitated Bottom of the Barrel Crud
If I can say one thing positive about this album, it's that the actual mixing is not too horrible, but that's about it. Read more
Published 10 days ago by M
3.0 out of 5 stars
Love Matcbox Twenty
The only song I like on here is She is So Mean.... the other ones didn't jump out at me... I love Rob Thomas and always have.... I just think that was his best song on here.
Published 12 days ago by crystallisms
5.0 out of 5 stars
Hard to go wrong here.
If you love Matchbox Twenty, you'll probably love this album.
Actually, I don't think I've heard a song by MB20 I didn't like, and this album may very well be my... Read more
Actually, I don't think I've heard a song by MB20 I didn't like, and this album may very well be my... Read more
Published 13 days ago by Joshua J. Sleeper
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love!
I could not find this album anywhere in stores where I live and I am very glad I found it here for a decent price. Love it!
Published 15 days ago by Heather Wyatt
5.0 out of 5 stars
great cd
I have been a matchbox twenty fan since they released the single push. I have all there CDs and these guys still have it after all this time. Read more
Published 24 days ago by Adam Rutledge
1.0 out of 5 stars
What happened guys?
I was a huge fan for the first 3 albums. Great songs, well written, produced, and recorded. Then you guys switched into "we hope we can get a residency in Vegas someday" mode. Read more
Published 1 month ago by David Miles
2.0 out of 5 stars
Not the Matchbox Twenty I love
I was quite disappointed in this album. Granted I haven't been buying all of Rob Thomas' albums, just hearing them on the radio. Read more
Published 1 month ago by grizzlover
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent
Always been a fan of Matchbox 20 and this album delivers as usual. I like every song on it. If you like Rob Thomas and Mathbox 20, l think you will like this one.
Published 1 month ago by caren milone
