MATCHBOX TWENTY: "MORE THAN YOU THINK YOU ARE"


Layered with snappy guitar work, whopping drums and Rob Thomas' friendly vocals, "More Than You Think You Are" is a rock 'n' roll album that shows depth and maturity without getting stuffy.

By song No. 2, "Disease," MB20 is at full power, working riffs with a Latin beat that tips its hat to Carlos Santana.

Musically, MB20 seems to be enjoying this opportunity to rock out, but they also dabble in country, pop and even '50s R&B.

Considering the titles on this album - Take "Disease," "Unwell," "So Sad, So Lonely" - it's shocking how bright a disc this is. It brims with optimism.

But all of the songs aren't created equally. "Could I Be You" is filler, as is the strum-along "Soul." Listen for "All I Need" (a song with strong George Harrison references) as the best of the disc.

Don Aquilante, NYPost.com