Has it really been five years since Matchbox Twenty released any new material? I suppose with lead singer Rob Thomas' solo album bridging the gap it didn't seem that long, but gosh. Here's hoping for a shorter length of time between 'Exile On Mainstream' and their next true major release.
'True major release?' Yeah, this isn't a full album of new tunes. You could call it a greatest hits package with several new tracks, or a new EP with all their old hits bundled in for good measure. Six new tracks is a lot for a 'Hits' album, and all the of older tracks make it an awfully large EP. So take your pick on what you wish to call it. The new material was great; innovative, but still Matchbox Twenty. They're still cool enough for teens, but not too cool for their parents to listen to. They may be the best in the music industry at walking this line, posting more #1 hits, and more time spent at #1 than any other artist in the history of the Adult Top 40 charts. That is a nice feather to stick in your cap. Regardless of all that, I'm just happy to see them recording as a band again, and that Rob didn't pull a Beyonce.
If you just became a fan of Rob Thomas, or only caught on to the band after the release of their last album, this compilation is a must have. My younger readers, trust me when I tell you Matchbox Twenty's music is fairly timeless, and you're going to like it. They blazed the trail for Maroon 5 and Fallout Boy, and they did it better. If you try it and don't enjoy your listening experience, rip me in the comments. I'm that confident in this recommendation.