Anthem mode

If popularity and rabid fan support were the parameters for gauging a band’s status, both The Script and Matchbox 20 would be right up there in the stratosphere. They’re bands with songs that are practically anthems for their followers. While Matchbox had seemingly gone into semi-retirement, it is back with a new CD, North. Recent Manila visitor, The Script, gives us a double CD release — new material, and four live recordings that showcase just how loyal its fan base can be. 

The Script — #3 (Sony Records). Dubliners, the members of The Script are back with an album that’s a crafty blend of the “hip-hop blended with a killer sing along chorus” songs they’re known for, the ballads that people have taken to heart and mid-tempo tunes that hit the mark. The single is Hall of Fame, where will.i.am shares the lead vocals. My favorite signature Script songs here would be 6 Degrees of Separation and Glowing. Broken Arrow and No Words are the lush ballads that should be staples in their touring repertoire. Listen to the live version of Man Who Had No Name and be stunned with how the audience takes over the vocals throughout the whole song. On the bonus CD, I also liked Moon Boots, an upbeat tune. Strong set of songs! 

Matchbox Twenty — North (Atlantic/Warner Music). It’s been some time since Matchbox released a studio album of new tunes, and Parade, the opener, is one strong way to signal the band’s return. She’s So Mean reminded me of Billy Joel’s uptempo hits, while Put Your Hands Up had me scrambling to make sure I had not picked up a new Maroon 5 album. Thankfully, Overjoyed and Our Song are great tunes that are very Matchbox. I Will is a gorgeous ballad, and my personal pick for Song of the Album would be How Long. While critics have often scoffed at the hit-making magic of Mr. Rob Thomas and the band, this consistent set of tunes exemplifies what makes it such a hit with fans, turning songs into anthems that its followers know by heart.