More Than They Think They Are (Matchbox Twenty in general)

Member Name: nixtee

Product:	Matchbox Twenty in general
Date:	01/08/08 (44 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great music

Disadvantages: None

I was introduced to Matchbox Twenty (herein written as MB20) back in 1999 when a friend sent me an MP3 of "Real World", a single from their first album "Yourself or Someone Like You" (released in 1996). From the moment I heard "Real World" I was hooked, it became a favourite song and I just had to have the album to see what else the band had to offer. The album featured songs such as "Long Day", "3am", "Push" and "Back To Good".

Their first album was followed up with "Mad Season" in 2000, which included the singles "Bent", "If You're Gone" (I love this one), the title track "Mad Season" and "Last Beautiful Girl". Another album that would spend a long time in my CD player!

Next up, I saw them support Bon Jovi at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium, along with Delirious, in 2001. During a break, Adam (MB20 guitarist) came in front of the stage and videoed & talked with the fans in the crowd. It was fantastic to see 2 of my favourite bands play on the same night!

Then in 2002 came the "More Than You Think You Are" album containing the hit singles "Bright Lights", "Unwell" and "Disease". Again, this CD barely left my CD player.

The following year we were treated to EP, a 6 song album, featuring acoustic and live versions of their popular songs, as well as a new track.

MB20 then went on hiatus while members pursuded their own projects. Lead singer Rob Thomas went solo and released this solo album "Something To Be", but in February 2005 (after speculation) guitarist Adam Gaynor officially left MB20.

By the time MB20 returned last year (2007), us fans were more than ready. Their latest album "Exile In Mainstream" was released late last year. It's a 2 parter really, featuring 6 new songs and 11 greatest hits songs.

Earlier this year they embarked on a world tour and I got to see them once again, this time at Wembley Arena. I got a USB wristband featuring a recording off the concert, a great momento!

At a MB20 concert a few years ago, I was introduced to the music of Maroon 5 as they were the support act - another great band!

MB20 are a great live band as well as a studio band. They are so energetic and excel on stage. If you ever get the chance, make sure you go and see them!

MB20's current line up is Rob Thomas (lead vocals/piano), Kyle Cook (lead guitar/banjo/backing vocals), Paul Doucette (rhythm guitar/backing vocals - formerly drums/percussion/backing vocals) and Brian Yale (bass), with Matt Beck (rhythm guitar/keyboards/mandolin/backing vocals) and Ryan MacMillan (drums/percussion). Former member Adam Gaynor (rhythm guitar/backing vocals) left in 2005.

I would certainly choose Matchbox Twenty to be in my Desert Island Discs!

Summary: A great American band!