The Matches Review

So, the Matches are arguably one of my favorite bands.  I don't like too many punk bands, but the Matches are one of the exceptions, and what an exception!  Drummer Matt Whalen provides syncopated, styled beats that diverge from the typical punk rock path, and lead guitarist Jon Devoto plays guitar in a way not too dissimilar from the usual punk sounds, but he adds a unique style to it that sets the Matches apart from other punk bands.  Shawn Harris's voice makes the band, it's shining moments appearing in the string and piano ballads Darkness Rising and Salty Eyes.  Their debut album, E. Von Dahl Killed the Locals, Whalen's drums are a bit simpler, but the style of the album isn't as abrasive and violent the way the Offspring (who I really like!) can be. The Matches first album astonishes me: it is incredibly well put-together and composed for a debut album.  The professionalism the Matches bring to their debut album is remarkable.  I think the best tracks on this album are: Untitled, Audio Blood, and The Restless. Their next album, Decomposer, sounds a bit more like a punk rock album, with the obvious exception of the string track Salty Eyes.  Matt Whalen's drum parts become truly impressive, they become actual compositions rather than an accepted drum beat performed by many drummers.  In my opinion, the best tracks on Decomposer are: Papercut Skin, Clumsy Heart, Didi (My Doe Part 2), and the more abrasive Shoot Me In the Smile.  That brings us to the Matches latest album: A Band In Hope.  On this album, the Matches got a bit confused; went through an identity crisis if you will.  The songs are very different, some of them downright strange. However, there are still some good ones: Darkness Rising is a very cool ballad (I'm a fan of the piano) that has a great build up, To Build A Mountain is one of the stranger tracks on the album, but I've grown to enjoy it, and finally, Between Halloweens is a cool song.  I definitely reccomend the first two albums, and if you're feeling adventerous, the third album is good too! 

P.S. Keep on the lookout, I hear there's a new album due for release this year!