We're soon heading back to the studio to begin demos for our next album. What do you think the next Matches record will be like? What do you want it to be like? Are your premonitions compatible with your wishes? Answer with complete sentences. Flip over your paper and put your pencil down when finished.
About Me
- Name: Shawn Harris
- Location: Oakland, CA
I am a louse, and I am lovely.
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- Halloween Stills
- Heartcore vs. theMatches
- There Is A Curse On Our Fingers
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- A Proper Introduction
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- Official Yankee In A Chip Shop Video
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194 Comments :
I think the next Matches record will be pure genius, just like the three before it. I think you've improved with every record, and that all three are very different and wonderful accomplishments. I wouldn't presume to tell you what kind of sound I think you should mimic, since your genius seems to be inventing brand new genres for yourselves. When I tell people that my favorite band is The Matches and they ask me what they sound like...I have no answer for them.
This may be a little weird, but I like to relate albums and bands to seasons. The cool thing about The Matches is that they/you have a winter album (a band in hope), a summer album (e. von dahl), and a fall album (decemposer) (i think). Now we just need a spring album.
Seriously, I also have to agree with the last sentence in alexandra's post. When I bring up The Matches and someone asks me what they sound like, I don't ever really know what to say. I hope the new album sounds different than E. Von Dahl Killed the Locals, Decomposer, and A Band in Hope but still sounds like The Matches.
I think that you can do it, because you've managed to pull it off on the three previous albums. The new record is VERY good news, I'm extremely excited to hear it, and I can't really imagine it being bad.
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I am so excited to hear that you will be heading back to the studio soon. I believe the next Matches album should be delightfully weird, no glistening plasticky pop for me please. Perhaps you could provide another album for me to blast in my dorm room and get people to stop and take notice (even if it is only strangely lifted eyebrows). I have no more requests...I trust you will do what you do.
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It will obviously have some three part harmonies, thanks to comments about Dylan's lurvely voice. It will be thought provoking and it will be grandiose. It will progress and reminisce, and once again defy category and genre. However, reasonable or otherwise wishes include- anthems along the vein of Jack Slap, possibly A Girl I Know (which deserves a spot on an album) and a ballad to rival The Barber's Unhappiness (which will be difficult, I know, but achievable). It will also accompany another tour to Australia/Sydney, and it will not come soon enough.
i hope it will be more like decomposer,
and less like a band in hope.
all three of your records are fabulous,
but decomposer has got to be my favourite.
something i missed a lot about a band in hope,
is the lack of the spastic rocking,
the random shreaks and squeals,
and the brilliant lyricism that we all know and love.
bring back the spasticness,
bring back the lyrics,
bring back the excitement.
and sir,
you will have one badass record on your hands.
Obviously it's going to be brilliant, there's no question about that. I would love to hear something a bit more like Decomposer, since it had more twisted metaphors and perhaps a bit more frantic energy than A Band In Hope. However, on the latest record you seemed a lot more sure of yourselves, musically, like okay, this is what we like, this is what we're good at, I want to try something different, hey that sounds great, let's have more of that.
*flip*
*pencil breaks in half*
I think I fail for that last sentence, which was definitely a run-on. But honestly, if you think you're making good music, chances are we trust your judgment.
PS. I wholly agree with Marena above, particularly about "My Soft & Deep". Also something as catchy as the Jack Slap Cheer would make my heart sing.
I apologize for the length of this, but I couldn't say it in less words...
I honestly think that anything The Matches releases will be more than up to par as far as my musical tastes are concerned, but I assume you wouldn’t have asked this question if you wanted that answer, so here goes.
Considering that my favorite songs are ones like “My Doe Part 1” and the acoustic version of “Here’s to Love”, I would very much like to hear things like that. This however poses some problems, mainly that Matt and Dylan’s jobs/participation would decrease exponentially, and considering Dylan’s short time with you guys, that probably isn’t a good option. I enjoy songs with heavier instrumentation like “Their City” and songs with ‘darker’ vibes to them like “My Soft & Deep”. I really like when there's a sort of raw emotion in the song, as I mentioned "Here's To Love" and "From 24C", there's some kind of edge and vulnerability that strikes a strong chord in my brain. The parts of songs that always get me are when they turn into something more than just a song (though I’m not really sure what that means). The reason I like “My Doe Part 1” so much is because it takes me to that place where the song is from, or what I imagine it to be, I guess.
The things that really impressed me about A Band In Hope were the harmonies and instrumentation on it. It may have been more prevalent than on Decomposer to me because I obtained a better understanding of music between their releases, but in any case, I think you have some talented vocalists, and it’d be interesting to hear what you could come up with (the end of “Darkness Rising” comes to mind right now).
I don’t know if any of this has been useful, but regardless, I trust that you guys will create something extraordinary, I’ve yet to be disappointed.
PS-I took two of my friends to see your show this weekend (my third time around), and they were completely blown away. Thank you for doing what you do and being the best band I’ve ever seen live, I can honestly say the best three nights of my life have been seeing you perform.
The Matches are not a band known to sit still for long. In an interview, lyricist/frontman/guitarist/vocalist Shawn Harris said that they released their third album becuase "no one wants to be a sophmore for long". This lends them their free-wheeling genuis, and also their occasional inchoerency (see "Scratched Out"). Whatever they go with will surely be presented with such enthusiam that it cannot fail, with fans or the casual listening audience.
The first album was something like a hot asphalt California suburb band yipping and bouncing around their front lawns. The second, a hammering, caffiene-induced three-AM beautiful savage rant through some sort of cool autumn forest filled with crows. The third, a parade through the green grass of Central Park, waving banners and smiling outrageously wide.
The fourth album HAS to be just as vivid. Keep picking up things from each of your previous albums (solos from first, frantic poetics from second, bombastic joy from third), but be careful to make it coherent enough, centered around a theme of some sort. Darkness has worked for you, as well as anger, joy, bluesy regret and vulgarity.
Now let's have a Matches smorgasboard.
Shawn, your vocal approach is unlike anything I've ever heard in other bands. You make weird little noises, yelps, screams, groans.... you can go deep or high, your intonation is really unique. It's awesome. I think these qualities really stood out on Decomposer, and I would be excited to hear more on a next cd.
The next Matches record will be an almighty fusion of all 3 records into one glorious crowning musical orgasm. I want it to have the raw sound of E.von Dahl, Jon's blazing guitar solos and more lyrical hooks than ever. I want it to have the funky bass beat of "My Soft and Deep" from Decomposer and the quirky soundeffects of Decomposer. I want it to have the delightful upbeat melody of "Wake the Sun" and crowd participation of "Yankee in a Chip Shop" from A Band in Hope. I hope that there will be a US headlining tour of The Matches with MC Lars to promote the album and that it will include Houston, Texas before the end of next July.
I really don't have any idea what the next Matches record will be like. They have all been very different and I've been pleasantly surprised with each release. What I would hope for the next record is that you do the recording process similar to Decomposer, in that you take a really long amount of time to perfect it, I would much rather wait a year and a half or even longer and get something like that record than have you rush it. As far as a sound or a theme for the record, I would hope that you guys would just make something that feels right. But, if I had to suggest something, I really enjoy the darker tracks like 24c and The Barbers Unhappiness. I agree with one of the anonymous comments below, I really enjoy the random shreeks and squeels in Decomposer. Those are always good.
Most importantly, again, I would just ask you to take a really really long time.
If this helps:
Papercut Skin, Sunburn vs the Rhinovirus and Sick Little Suicide are my favorite tracks instrumentally.
24c, The Barbers Unhappiness, Sunburn vs. the Rhinovirus and Here's to Love are a few of my favorite lyrically.
Can't wait to hear what you guys create! I hope that helped!
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I also must say that, for me personally, Decomposer was your best album thusfar. Don't get me wrong- I love A Band in Hope and E. Von Dahl, but Decomposer was just so wonderfully odd (and I mean that as a compliment, of course)..I couldn't (and still can't) stop listening to it. I'd like to hear more of that!
First off...
I have loved you guys and been a fan from the beginning. And i have to say i love all of your albums. But if i could choose (and I'm sticking with the essay format here) what your next album should sound like i would have to tell you to go back to your roots and pursue something more along the lines of e. von dahl. That album came across as being so honest and true and that was something i looked up to ans (its inspired me to make the fucking sick music i make today might i add. www.myspace.com/Deadlights ...i allready know i'm a tool)
And don't get me wrong i loved Decomposer and i also enjoyed a band in hope... But i have to say i've missed the shit i can scream to with all my friends when we are driving in our shitty 1990' beaters. And don't get me wrong i appreciate the slower stuff like "clouds crash" but I really enjoy the faster tracks on the two newest like "What Katie said" and "Between Halloweens" and i really hope you guys go in that direction for the new stuff.
I also really hope you guys use one producer. I like the cohesiveness of sticking with one and that's something i have missed. As long as you guys keep being honest and don't lose yourselves I'm looking forward to it.
And Shawn i've really looked up to you as a musician and sort of idol. i don't want to sound like a homo but you've got great style along with being in a band that's defined many of my years. Thanks for that!
What do you think the next Matches record will be like? What do you want it to be like? Are your premonitions compatible with your wishes?
I'm not sure what the next album would be like, but just one word-- Different.
However, I always like to listen to songs, that once the music starts, you don't feel like changing the station/skipping to the next track. You keep on listening, and from the beginning you got this unknown feeling, but somehow you couldn't explain the feeling but when the lyrics and singing comes in, you know what's that feeling. That the melody of the song matches the lyrics.
For example, slow songs, match with sad lyrics, yet, encouraging. Fast songs with heaving beating, match with strong lyrics.
Well, I don't know if I made it clear but I'm not good at explaining.
Anyways, I'm looking forward in this album. And hope to see it in stores soon. Especially Asian countries.
I think it will be like nothing before. Maybe more Queen-esque vocal-centered songs like we saw a bit of on ABIH? Perhaps something even more different, like a track with conga drums and an electric ukelele? With The Matches, there's no way of knowing. You must get used to the unexpected. There is only one thing you can be sure of: it's going to be amazing! Phenomenal! Ingenious! And I can't wait for it to come out.
Just do what you do and it won't disappoint!
I think anything the Matches make is awesome. You have yet to disappoint. So really, just keep doing what you've been doing. Whatever it is, it works. In my opinion, Decomposer is the best one so far, and it is by far my favorite album. even two years later it still sounds new and exciting to me. I have to agree with a lot of these posts that faster, more upbeat songs would help. However, every album has something great about it. E. Von Dahl has great energy, and is just overall a fun album. Plus, Scratched Out is probably the best way to end an album in my opinion. That last chord makes me smile every time. Decomposer has so many different kinds of sounds on it but somehow it works perfectly together. A Band In Hope is genius and should have gotten your name out there much more than it did. So overall, anything would do. Maybe a mix of the three? If I could ask for one thing, it would be to use more of the random screams like in Little Maggots, The insane laughing like in Papercut Skin or AM tilts, and those high pitched squeals or whatever you call them that you use in You (Don't) Know Me and My Soft And Deep.
I'm glad this is a bonus essay question, because I would probably have points taken off for grammar, run on sentences, and not breaking it up into body paragraphs.
be yourselves and we'll still love you
Hey there, xlocals.
Pretty please make a Matches White Album (I know you don't need me to explain that.)
Or...just sing to us what you're singing to yourselves in your heads.
We trust you. Go forth and be The Matches. Or whoever you want to be.
Well, knowing The Matches, I believe their new record will sound vaguely like their old records; what I mean by that is that the Matches never make the same record twice, it's always unique and eccentric and different from anything they, or any other band, has done before. Yet, they still manage to keep that trademark 'the Matches' sound, and that is what I love about them. I love how they stay true to themselves and how they feel no matter how odd it seems. The oddness is/was what draws/drew me to the Matches in the first place, and the fact that there is no other band as unique and original as them in this day and age. I agree with the anonymous one, I have no wishes for this record, except that you guys stay true to yourselves and the music you create, like you always have before. I have faith in you (guys), and I'm positive that if you stick to your heart and soul with this record, it will be everything I have ever wished for, and more.
that being said, I am also anticipating/anxious to see what Mr.Rowe will be contributing to this new album. It's all just too exciting!
ps- If ya get an itchin' to play a show or two whilst making said record, you and the boys should head down to SoCal to play a few shows, yeah? Preferably at Chain Reaction in Anaheim.
I feel it being a little more dancy in some parts, kind of reggaeish, and then I think more epic, big sounding, like on the recent album...so I can't even imagine what it could sound like it being together.
I could never want The Matches to sound one certain way because they always surprise me and I like that in music. Plus, it's always catchy and witty. My favorite album is also Decomposer, with My Soft & Deep being my favorite track, but I could never want a ~new album sounding like something I've already heard. And as far as my predictions and premonitions agreeing, I'm too indecisive (and clueless) to know.
ha, I've got long run on sentences too. (:
To me, this isn't about what I want from a new Matches record, its about what you want from a new Matches record.
As longs as it's pure Matches musciality, lyricism, and wackiness, and what you want to do with your music, I'll have no complaints :) I've loved everything so far, and i'm sure i'll love whatever you decide to do with yourselves in the future.
(p.s Australia misses you already =D )
Okay, here's the thing... all three Matches albums are so amazing in their own way. Sure, they're all different from each other but not so different that it doesn't sound like you guys at all. That's what I really like about The Matches. There's consistency, but you really have to look for it. That's what makes your music interesting.
For the fourth album I'm expecting all three mixed into one.
Or I would really like to hear some songs sounding like Their City and Clouds Crash crammed together, that would be intense. But hey, it's your record. Do whatever the hell you want... well why wouldn't you guys? We're going to love it no matter what, well at least I am!
Oh yeah... Haha. Everytime someone asks me what my favorite band is I scream, "THE MATCHES!" And they're like, "What do they sound like?" And I honestly cannot come up with a response. Once this one guy I was hanging out with that I just met at one of your shows told Jon that The Matches sounded like crack and candy... I guess I would have to agree with him a little bit.
Anyway...
No matter what it sounds like, it's going to be amazing. Come on, it's The Matches.
(:
I think the next record will have another level of maturity that was given with A Band in Hope, I think with each album you guys have grown. And I wouldn't be surprised if the next album was you all a little more grown. At the same time a little something new that comes with the addition of new bass player. I expect a lot of creativity in lyrics, sound and cover (as in the cover of the album).
a while back, a friend and i were discussing bands and albums and songs that kind of changed the way we thought about music.
after my spiel on the matches, he demanded to hear a sample, told me to choose a song. i kinda didn't know what to play, because every song on each of your albums is different to the next. some have topical cohesion, and other similiarities, but it was this anthemic, uniqueness that i discovered i loved about The Matches.
and Shawn i really don't have to worry about disliking any new music, since even if there was nothing else to like about a song, i just love the way you write, i love the phrasing, references to pop culture, humor and biting witticism. hence the reason why i'm here reading your blog, and have for a long time now.
i'm so excited about the new album, and anxious to see what the addition of Dylan will do to change the sound and image of the band.
i think the Matches are more a feeling than a specific genre to be catergorised in. so thats what i expect i guess, more of that good feeling, weird unique sound that i've always found a home in.
More than a feeling.
I want brilliant lyrics, but I don't doubt they'll happen. I noticed one commenter didn't feel A Band in Hope has that, but I strongly disagree.
I want an album with as many sounds as there are moods to the songs on it, something where the songs just fit themselves right.
I suppose I want to be surprised... Good luck.
I think the new album will be like nothing we've ever heard. That's what you guys do every time you come out with a new album. I mean, we expect that we'll know what it's like, you put out the new album, and we're like, "Well, I wasn't expecting this. It's also a lot better than I could have ever imagined."
Whenever someone asks me what you guys sound like, I have no answer (even though other people have already said this). My favorite thing about you guys is that you never sound the same. You go from "Boarderline Creep", to "Wake The Sun", to "The Barber's Unhappiness", to "Yankee In A Chip Shop", (not in that order), and none of those songs sound the same. If I didn't know those songs, I'd probably think those were all sung be different artists. And that makes it so easy to listen to you guys for a long time, because you can't get tired of variety.
I love you, and I'm sure the new album will be just as great, if not better than, your previous albums.
How can we even predict what the next one will be like? There is almost no connection between any of them, excepting the fact that they're all amazing. I'm so psyched for the next album. But seriously, Alexandra said it best - people ask me what you sound like or what kind of band you are (and look at me funny when I say "They're a band as weird as we are") and I never have an answer for them. That, in my opinion, is the best thing about you guys. It would disappoint me if aspect of your music that changed.
Also, SPECTACULAR show at the Trocadero last night. I had a blast. And I am deeply apologetic for how creepy I recall being when I met you afterwards, haha.
the matches on e. von dahl are still the matches that i enjoy seeing live, bringing back the punky vibe with a low lying sense of a ska background. the type of music that makes you want to dance as it blasts through your speakers.
i love listening to the old stuff, like people on the block, boston, and december is for cynic. i understand the whole concept of growing as artists and trying new styles.. decomposer and a band in hope were both huge changes from the matches that i first fell in love with, not saying that i still dont.
I remember going to my first matches concert when you guys opened for Reel Big Fish. I nearly died, and not just from the circle pit. the ska infused nor-cal punk was gripping.
A mangasm.
i am preety much gonna repeat whatever everone else said. It shouldnt matter what we nessecarliy want but what u want. With e. Von Dahl that was u guys not caring what other peopolee thought but u guys being u which made people fall in love with ur music. i love all of ur music and ur amazing. i think all ur music is the same cause it comes from u yet its so different which makes u never get boerd. im the same for what others said i never find myself skipping a song because they are all so good.
p.s. u guys were amazing in hartford and i hope u come back soon and maybe this time i will be able to see u shawn! but u guys were so much fun to watch and u were the best performers. (Fun talking to dylan about his short term memory loss! lol and thankyou jon for my cat on my poster its hanging in my room right now)
Hey, how are we going to get graded on this?
To be plain and simple, I want the next Matches record to sound like something I can blast through my speakers at 2AM and annoy/intrigue the neighbors with.
What do I think it will be like?
Probably something completely insane.
But insanely beautiful and addicting.
I believe that it is completely possible that the next record will align with my wishes.
But I think it's more likely that it surpasses them.
I want an album that makes me think, I want to dissect the hell out of it, I want to think I know what the song means, then I listen to it a few more times, hear something I didn't hear the first few times, then come up with a whole different meaning. Shawn, you have a way of saying things, your lyrics are a work of art themselves. With the help of the rest of the nuts, you guys make wonderful music. I wouldn't mind hearing some stuff along the lines of 24c, Little Maggots, Audio Blood, or AM Tilts. But whatever you do, I will love it and will keep you guys close to my heart. All I can really say is good luck and let us hear what plays in your head at night
I see the last three albums as some form of ruller coaster, the first climbing, the secong gaining speed coming down the track, and the thir one going really really fast! So I imagine the4th must begin again....don't ask me what I expect it to sound like.
As far as what I want it to sound like...I would love to see some showcasing of your new member, I want to see what he can do. I saw you guys live with him, but I want to see him hold his own (Maybe that was a challenge? *wiggles eyebrows*)
My premonitions are never right. Darn
finished! HAs the bell rung yet?
-the next Matches record will be something that will make me: grin with excitement/tilt my head in confusion/turn up the volume/laugh hysterically/leave me speechless and would want to share it with the whole wide world.
-I want the next album to be like a fireworks pinapple "crack & candy" chocolate icing cake.Like, once you take the first bite, it's so good, you stop using your fork and are just like,"gahrfuhm." diving right in using your hands.
-My premonitions are not compatible with my wishes, they never are.
"No matter what it sounds like, it's going to be amazing. Come on, it's The Matches." couldn't have said it better myself,Katie =]
*flip*
Now that that's over. What the heck? First a pop quiz, now essay questions?
*throws pencil at teacher*
-J.R
e. von dahl..... please...i'm begging
you
I have no wishes for this record, as such.
i expect it to be amazing, like the rest. I expect it to have that same, weird little thing about it that just has ''the Matches'' written all over it. And still be different to the other three records. Which I think Dylan will help with.
And, I expect it to be different to what I expect, if that makes any sense. Something that I won't be able to imagine or foresee.
I expect that I, and everyone else, will love it.
Oh, but I do have one wish, somewhat relating to the new record. And that is, when it comes out, I wish the Matches would tour in England.
this album's going to be amazing.. it's inevitable. it doesn't matter what anyone wants it to sound like because it's obviously going to be great whether anyone wants it to or not. i'm excited. super excited. and my excitement still hasn't worn off from your show aha. so now it's like..double excitement.
what do you want the new album to be like?
I'd love for the sound to reverse back to E. Von Dahl a bit. That album was so kickass and punchy.
Saying that though, the creativity of a band in hope is amazing. If you could just fuse that creativity with the punky heavier sounds it would be musical genius.
While “A Band in Hope” is my favorite of the three Matches albums by far (followed by Decomposer and then E. Von Dahl), I think the new Matches album will be Decomposer’s rightful and promised sister album, “A Mad Silentist.” The album, being produced by 9 or 10 different people, will showcase The Matches’ profound ability of eclectic-ness in 13 or 14 unique songs, some of which will be updated versions of older fan favorites, such as “Bad Seeds” and “Follow the Lights home.” But even better than that, the album will feature so many new songs that can only be categorized as a “Matches song.” Not many bands have the ability to craft their own sound as well as the Matches can, and this album will stick with that mantra, sadly disappointing some hardcore E. Von Dahl fans, but mostly appealing to the masses that consume their records. Even better yet, the artwork will be done by OXen yet again, but, like the white stripes, predominately finds its strength in three colors, unifying the art. These colors will be Yellow, Red, and Black. Then, and only then, the message board’s layout will return to its one and only true destiny, the Mustard and Ketchup backdrop we all grew to love.
I’m looking forward.
(Being in college has severely affected my style of writing. You say “essay” and I write an essay. Of course, I write essays when not asked to as well. I do blame school.)
Given the preceding albums and their variations – contrasts as well as similarities – the question on what a new album would be like is, in a way, unanswerable. However it can be said (as some already have expressed it) that it will, in large, be nothing like what will be expected of it music-wise. In a good way, granted. It can also be said that it is likely to be brilliant. Furthermore a qualified guess would be that it will be a new album altogether and not a remake of the albums that came before it. Fourthly it can be added that it is only in retrospective that it is possible for most (if not everyone) to see what it was that brought about the uniqueness of any give album by The Matches. Therefore it is difficult, if not bordering on impossible, to make any assumptions regarding the sound and theme of the new album. About the lyrics, however, can be said that they are likely to be as ingenious and varied as always.
Regarding the wishes for what the new album should be like it can be said that one wish would be for it not to be a recreation. Do not go back. If there is a wish to reinvent sounds from earlier in the career than that is all good and well. If, however, there is this nudge either from outside or from within to, so to speak, “go back to the roots” the advice would be not to follow that nudge. There is no reason to do what already has been done or go back to places that has already been visited. Let the new album indeed take everyone someplace new.
That being said there is no harm in keeping certain elements, which also has been mentioned. However it should also be said that it would be wise to be careful with collaboration of elements. It has been requested that the new album should indeed be a sort of mixture of previous ones. Perhaps not the best idea as it could prove that elements that separately are so loved will not be done justice if combined. Indeed it might prove that trying to incorporate them all in a mixture would be a mistake – and if we look at pervious album there is a kind of distinction between them as opposed to sounds continuing to accompanying whilst new ones are added. This meaning that Decomposer is not an extension of E. Von Dahl Killed The Locals just as A Band In Hope is not an continuance of Decomposer (though it was planned as an sister album originally). Which leads up to the second wish; make the new album its own.
Another wish would be that the new album is made without the requests made on it being more than a very minor factor. Because, in the words of John Lydon; “…Audiences are far too fucking demanding on the people they like and dislike. The truth always lets them down because it destroys their fantasy…” Attempting to make what has been asked for does not have a tendency to receive more appreciation; on the contrary it is likely not to meet the anticipations of anyone. Of course, The Matches have some amazing fans that have come to appreciate not exactly knowing what to expect from a new album. It is a band that has a lot of fans who have come to accept (and indeed also love) that each new album will be different from the previous one(s).
All of the above means that the premonitions are indeed compatible with the wishes as the premonitions and the wishes both are along the lines of that there is no knowing what exactly to expect and a hope for that it will indeed prove to be the case. Additionally there is a premonition of a completely new album with still stays true to the spirit of The Matches, which also is the wish.
So, in conclusion, as long as the album has that indefinable essence which makes it a The Matches album nothing more needs being asked for.
To return to the first question though, this essay could be ended in the words of Adman Davis; “I predict that the next Matches record to be so fuckin’ polarizing – that’s how the media will put it – but really, it’ll be a giant middle finger going ‘what up, we lost our fucking minds.’”
I shall now put down my pencil and turn the paper and regard this class as dismissed.
Overambitious and sanctimonious? Yep. All in true college essay spirit! Very fitting for an essay actually. And very haughty for a blog comment. (And here is where I stop grinning sardonically.) Hopefully the grains of seriousness can be distinguished and separated from the rest though. And yeah, I do think, in all seriousness now, that asking for the fans’ opinions is a good move. Trading ideas is never a bad thing.
my doe part 3
haha rose, way to take my idea and bash the crap outta me. kudos
This may sound like a cop out in comparison to everyone else's answers, but I really can't imagine what the next record will sound like. And quite frankly, I don't want to be able to.
I say, keep surprising us!
I'd only be disappointed if an album anything less than unique was produced. Which I don't actually think is possible from you guys, so I'm really not worried about that.
Have fun and good luck in the studio!
PS
Jon should sing at least one song again. That is my one humble wish. :)
Completely off-topic, but I think you'd enjoy this: http://news.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=666734
RERECORD CIRCUMSTANCE AND POMP.
That is all.
I think a lot of people will disagree with me and to be honest, I can't be bothered reading though the comments to find find out, but...
I am hoping that you continue to create more music that experiments with sound and instruments. I had a Mars Volta, Bright Eyes' Digital Ash Album and Radiohead vibe from a few songs on the last album (From 24C, Proctor Rd.).
At the same time, I am hoping that there are some "old" Matches type songs on the album, like Sick Little Suicide and The Restless. I definitely felt like the last album gave a hint of those, but I want more.
In all, I say MORE EXPERIMENTING.
After writing this, I feel like I've pretty much just told you to keep doing what you're doing. So, yeah...keep up the good work? ha.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fWzXNhfoQ8
I hope your next album is like E Von Dahl Killed the Locals. I could relate to those songs more. It also sounded better... =/
Just my personal opinion.
well, im pumped.
Why is everyone saying write another E Von Dahl? Yea, it was a great, fun, and inspiring album. Pop-punk at its best, I think. But, it's just that - pop-punk. You guys have so much more talent and creativity to just write a typical pop-punk album. You've showed us that with Decomposer and ABIH.
The thing for me is that I love all the songs, from the fast Dog Eared Page to the slow Clouds Crash. Live, however, I would much rather see the fast, adrenaline pumping songs.
Just keep doing what you're doing boys. I'm very excited for this record and to see what Dylan brings to it.
I'm hoping that the new record will have a lot of different grounds covered, but still keep the original weirdness that we all love. Upbeat and whitty songs like "Jack Slap Cheer", slower acoustics with deep lyrics and beautiful vocals such as "Clouds Crash" and intense instrumentals like towards the end of "Darkness Rising". Since theres no genre that can classify The Matches, it shows how they're are one of the best bands to ever be brought together. Also in my opinion, no band will ever be able to compete on the same level as The Matches. I'm excited to know that the new record will be unlike anything anyone has ever heard before.
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
circumstance and pomp
i fucking love this song.
I'm not going to tell you what to write. I trust that no matter what you guys produce, I'll love it. Have fun experimenting your little hearts out; just don't overwork yourselves. Good luck.
I think the new album will make me want to never see you live again. I am sure it will be amazing, and I am sure that I will love it. However, as your popularity grows I fear you will become one of those bands that annoying teenage girls flock to see. I will be proud that you are all becoming popular and recognized for your talent, but I for one am finding it hard to tolerate being surrounded by young, obnoxious fans. If I see one more person take on your style, interests or personality traits I will lose it.
My hopes for the next album are that it has the lyrical eccentricity of Decomposer and the instrumental genius of A Band In Hope. But most of all, I'd be more than ecstatic to hear the punk rock sound come back. That's what the world REALLY needs. Punk rock music that makes them feel like a kid again, where they can go to the show and jump around and forget about their cares and just have a great time. The whole punk rock element is also what helps bring out The Matches' best stage energy, which is what I fell in love with when I first heard and saw the Matches on the Matchbook Romance tour a few years ago. That being said, I could never pick a favorite Matches album because they're all so different, and I think that the best parts of each of those albums combined into one would most likely cause my head to explode in a burst of joyful euphoria. True story.
Also, I completely agree with what Allyson said about the seasons thing, because I too relate those albums to those seasons.
Either way, I KNOW that whatever the next album is like, it'll be a masterpiece. I'll always love and support the Matches, even if the Oakland in 'em decides to go gangster rap on us.
E. Von Dahl was just so strong and solid, and relatable. So much passion, I felt. I know you've moved on from that, but I thought Decomposer lacked the same passion and intrigue as a whole. I was really impressed with some of ABIH, and hope you go along those lines if you want to keep moving forward.
I remember listening to e von dahl (has it been five years already?!) and it expressed a lot of the same sentiments I had, it was the first time I felt I had truly connected with music. My friends and I would just drive around and blast it when there was nothing to do and all we really wanted was maybe something a little bit better then what we had. When decomposer came out I could tell that all of you had grown and matured,that you had seen things and met people that made you a little bit different, like you had finally realized who you were and were coming to terms with everything the good, the bad, whatever. Decomposer came at the perfect time for me, it was when everyone was leaving home and discovering what else was out there. When a band in hope came out this year I could feel that maturity ten fold. It sounds like you guys are in a really good place. I feel like your music has been a sound track of sorts to my adolescence and as far as the new album is concerned I look forward to growing even more with you guys. Ill be more then happy if the next album just continues to be music that inspires me and leaves me awed.
Im not worried I know you guys can deliver. I have yet to be disappointed. Im pretty sure this response was more for my benefit then your own, and your a better person then I am if you get thru it all. Best of luck in the studio tho, I ll be happily awaiting the next album!
SEX!!!!
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Forget your past. Continue to move forward. Gems like From 24c, Darkness Rising, Proctor Rd, AM Tilts, Barber's Unhappiness show that you can expand your sound into something that no one else has or is able to do. Don't be afraid to be psychedelic, experimental, weird, spontaneous or anything else. Shawn, you can be this generation's Brian Wilson if you wanted.
Keep the amazingly deep lyrics that your amazing at writing, but bring back the sporadic decomposer sound that made me fall in love with the Matches.
I agree with more songs that you can blare and belt your lungs out to like paper-cut skins and little maggots. I personally love more rock and guitar sound. Keep being innovative, keep being quirky, and all with that classic matches charm :).
What I like about The Matches is that they never put out the same album twice. Every album has a different sound and feel but still retains the uniqueness of The Matches making it different from anything else that's out there. I have no doubts that the new album will be different from the last but but still amplify the personality of The Matches and will no doubt be awesome!! I for one, can't wait to hear your mad new beats! ^_^
http://www.peta.org/cooking-mama/index.asp
In my personal opinion you should find a common ground between all three of your records. Point me Toward the Morning had such awesome verses. I would like to hear more like that. Upbeat, creative, and resembling Decomposer. As I do also love some of your slower songs (Barbers, From 24c, and Scratched out) I think you guys are scoring your best points with your energy. That is all for now. Can't wait to hear a new song!!!
Reading through the posts, i've noticed a lot of people why want something similar to Decomposer. Hmmm. I'll be honest, that album is amazing simply for the fact that it seems to evolve in my ears each time i listen to it. But then so do the other two. I have perfect faith that no matter what the outcome of the new album may be, it will be a Matches album.
I don't know if this is helpful or not, but these are the Matches songs i MOST enjoy listening too.
From 24C
AM Tilts
Wake the Sun
Salty Eyes
Little Maggots
Barber's Unhappiness
Audio Blood Audio Blood Audio Blood
Anything with harmonius awesomeness
(like unto The Restless)
I still testify that the Matches are the best live band i've seen. Ever.
pls give us more energetic songs like "Yankee in a chip chop, Little maggots, Papercut skin, Point me towards to the morning" i love the energetic matches!
and ... let John Feldmann to produce the whole album this time :P
Regardless of how awesome the next album the matches choose to create... I think one egregious error from the last album needs to be fixed. No bonus songs for the US album??? No offense to the Aussies and Europe... but come on. In fact those songs have steadily grown to be among my favorites (My Doe, pt 1 especially). The solution: On the next album put two bonus tracks for US or bay area only your choice- Remastered and re-recorded versions on Circumstance and Pomp as well as Bad Seeds. The other songs have your way with.
Ok I am going to admit, I became a fan when Decomposer came out. I saw you guys on Steven's Untitled Rock Show and fell in love with Papercut Skin, so I instantly went out to buy the album and fell in love immediatly with every single song on the album. It was the creative, spontaneous, spastic thing I was looking for.
Since I started out on their sophomore album I decided I needed to get E. Von and when I did I loved it just as much. Although it had more of a punk rock influence it still was amazing.
I was, to be honest, a little (and I mean little) disappointed with A Band In Hope. I just didn't have the instant satisfaction like I did with the other albums. NOt to say I'm still not a diehard fan because I still am, I just wanted a bit more from their third album.
I would personally love a album more like Decomposer, but I of course will love anything you guys put out.
Also it would cool to get a song like Forgive Durden's Doctor Doctor
off of Razia's Shadow
Well, considering A Band In Hope was very much a rebirth in my opinion, I think you guys will expand on that. I hope to see more beautiful light-hearted melodies, along with several 'toe-tappers', if you don't mind.
Not another E. Von Dahl!!
a-Something a-NEW. pleeease.
EVD was great, but, c'mon people!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBeY-uNGpLQ
Forgot to post that (the other one is of a man trying to fit himself into a balloon. Yeah. I don't know) - footage of Sunburn vs The Rhinovirus at the Troc :)
I can not tell you what to write, really. ConCrit is good, but make it how you want to.
Oh and I agree, Razia's shadow flavor would be nice.
I think the new matches album should be faster than a band in hope
more like decomposer
=]
chup chup!
that was a great video kaye. what a great night. and yes mike. circumstance and pomp for sure.
Haha thanks! Unfortunately you can hear me singing HORRIBLY throughout the whole thing, but ah, well.
haha it wasnt too bad. its a tough song to sing.
That, and I was yelling more than singing. ;D
I expect it will be unexpected. My scatterplot shows no correlation.
I want it to be bipolar; Not acquiescence, but determination, regret or a reckless celebration.
They are compatible.
P.S. I hate complete sentences.
I really like A Band In Hope, but I also love the guitar in Decomposer. I really think that makes the album have lasting power, and it gives you credibility. Don't phase out the cool guitar parts!
Also, please just go ahead and put one ultra-catchy, accessible song on there that we all know you're capable of and holding back. We'll forgive you when it pays your bills and ensures another record to follow.
I hope you realize the moment you ask this question out, the further you're tainting your mind into changing it.
I cannot tell you what to do, Shawn.
I can only tell you to remember what you've wanted.
Then simply to allow yourself to do it.
Let go of these boundaries, they are but burdens to restrain you.
Oh, and that arrogance is disgusting. Confidence can be attractive, yes. However...there is a line that borders the two.
Decomposer was my defining album to make you guys a a part in my heart.. so, I would like a nice dollop of your Decomposer essence into the new record.
Thank you please.
Exciting! PS-- great meeting you Sunday. I'm posting pics from the show on our blog and will let you know when the interview airs on our show.
xo joelle
I know whatever you four decide to do will be fantastic. You always surprise me whenever you put out a new record because it's so different from the one before while still sounding like, well, The Matches.
So, I am extremely excited and anxiously awaiting the new album! It'll be brilliant, and I can't wait :)
I think it would be cool if you guys did a concept album.
But whatever you do, don't try to please everyone. That is how bands/comedians/filmakers etc. become watered down and lose their spark.
I'm hoping for it to be the best thing ever. That's a mighty big request to fill, but I know you guys can handle it.
On a side note, I almost peeed my pants upon hearing this wonderful news.
Basically everything that I was thinking has been stated in some way, shape, or form so I will not bore you with my redundancy. I believe that all of your albums represent you all so well. E. Von Dahl was written a while ago so you guys have obviously grown since then. Decomposer displayed the development over those few years you had between E. Von Dahl and Decomposer. The same applies to A Band In Hope. All of your albums represnt your growth as a band, and as people in general for that matter.
As much as I personally love A Band In Hope, I think that it may be a bit of a turn off for some at first if they are not familiar with The Matches prior to listening to this album. I think it was very bold of you guys to go out there and release an album like that though. It was just like a "Hey this is us. You can like it or not, but this is where we are right now in our lives." I love the raw truth behind the whole album. If you want to continue on that path it may lead you to success, or it may not.
You can't really plan any of it out. Whatever happens happens. If you want to be the next big thing you can release a piece of shit that is filled with a bunch of mindless mumbo jumbo, but I know The Matches would never do that.
I think that you and the rest of the band know what is best for you as a whole. Listen to your heart. If you stick to that, you will gain so much more in life than those people that are all over the media.
Why thank you, pip. It wasn’t my intention (as I didn’t read your comment until afterwards) but now that you mention it I see how indeed I did do that. Alas! Too much spare time has claimed another victim – may your comment rest in piece.My apologies for unintentionally causing its demise.
yes.
MORE THAN A FEELING
...by the matches<3
I know that as long as you keep your habit of urging me to play your records at a deafening volume alone, sitting on the floor of my room with the lyrics in front of me, reading along to everything, you will put out another album that speaks directly to me and about all the things i can relate to.
you guys will forever be my favorite band, and I MISSED YOUR WEBSTER THEATER SHOW THURSDAY.
I will never forgive myself.
I think you know what you want to do. I say go for it.
You guys never do the same thing twice, and I'm thankful for it. Especially because it means you won't record another "Wake the Sun"
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i got a question for you, so comment back. =)
As long as you don't go country I'll be happy. I love your music just the way it is. I have to say that my favorite right now is "From 24c". It's very creepy.
film the recording process and release that with the cd. please.
Holy crap, that should happen (filming the recording process).
I think the next album should be less produced and poppy. I think it needs to be more like E.Von Dahl; you guys should return to your roots, The Locals. Remember L3. You guys are for sure more than local boys now, and i think it's time to bring it back home, and maybe have a CD-release show back in the bay. Try not to fall into the mainstream pop thing, which i think "a band in hope" did. I mean, that album and the direction you guys went totally turned me off to your music, even though i used to be a hardcore fan and i still have a total of 7 matches posters in my room, 4 of which i got you guys to sign... No offense, and i hope you don't disregard this just because it's criticism, because you guys definitely influenced my own music a lot.
That's just my opinion, do with it what you like.
... Okay, seriously, I don't get the whole "RETURN TO E VON DAHL!" thing. That was a great album, sure, but the point in anything you do is to grow.
And personally, I've liked the subsequent albums more. I think there's more to them.
When I first heard you guys on E. Von Dahl I felt that energy and enthusiasm in your music and knew you had some big things ahead of you. You improved ten fold with Decomposer, that was and still is one of my favorite albums I've ever heard. I can listen to that from start to finish and never get tired of it. After that cd came out I didn't think you could top it. As much as I wanted A Band In Hope to do just that, it didn't. While it was a great album it was no Decomposer. If you can top that album I am sure it will be more than amazing. Most of all, do what you want not what you think people want you to do. I have always been amazed by the music that comes out of the Bay Area, especially as of late. You guys helped start this scene and it seems like everyone is passing you by. I don't want this to come off as if I don't think you've got it anymore. Your spark is still there, you just have to find it. Try to bring the energy and enthusiasm that you have in your live shows to your next album. You make the crowd feel like they're a part of something bigger than who they are. Let your fans listen to your music and feel that way again.
E. Von Dahl was one of the first albums I fell hard for. I was young and had had my fair share of embarassing daliances with lesser bands; a song here, a concert there, and posters or bumper stickers where I'd later regret them but would be stuck with their sticky evidence for years afterward. Fast-paced, witty, fun and just angsty enough to keep me intrigued, E. Von Dahl is one of few first loves I don't regret.
Okay so love is great and all that, but you grew, and I grew, and when I first heard Decomposer, well, I thought you had changed too much. Maybe we weren't compatible anymore. We would always have Audio Blood, but at first glance it looked like our time apart hadn't made the heart grow fonder. However, at the time I was working a $6.15/hour job and Decomposer represented several of those dreadful hours, so I was damned if I wasn't going to give you a couple more chances to win me over. I'm just determined like that. You were more smooth this time and perhaps even a bit aloof so I was on my guard, but by the third listen I was just as smitten as I'd been two years prior. I loved the new you. A lot. So there we were again, blissfully happy for two more years in a pleasantly open band-fan relationship. Lovely. The new you had the same passion and intrigue, and you seemed to still really get me and where I was in life and how I felt. Chills. You had that occasional tone of melancholy, but you didn't dwell and you didn't whine and you didn't (thank God) scream like some of my ex-bands did so often. I'll say it again: it was lovely.
Finally, you gave the news that I should expect you to do it again. I was delighted because, by this time, I'd finally learned to trust you and your actions. Plus you couldn't have arrived at a better time: the very day I left for a semester abroad 9,000 miles from home, there you were, ready to join me on my 20-hour journey. You kept me company with that new-yet-slightly-familiar something that was just what I needed at the time. This time I got that butterfly feeling right away; no adjustment time necessary. You were optimistic yet haunting at times, joyful yet nostalgic, and had so much new depth. I loved the new you enough to even share you with some of my new friends in Oz (what can I say? I couldn't help myself, and it was good for all of us).
The best part about the Band In Hope you, the version 3.0+ you, is that you always remind me to look toward the horizon. A bit of you in the morning with a cup of green tea is all I need to start my day. Mmmm.
So, it is with a lot of excitement that I greet the news that you're ready to change things up on me again, that it's once again time to get a lil' bit mavericky by being a maverick.
I'm not sure exactly what to expect to be honest, despite how long and how well I've known you. The core of who you are won't change (please say it never will), but I'm ready for plenty of surface reinvention. Maybe this time you'll be a bit darker, a bit more 24C, but you'll keep that eternal-hope spark burning bright. I think the new you will be the perfect date to the upcoming Alice in Wonderland remake (think about it): delightfully manic at times and a pinch wistful at others, but always, well, always YOU.
However you choose to move forward, I'm forever yours. Because, Matches, you know me. You know all of us, and I think you love us back, maybe as much as we love you. You know what we want often before we even realize what exactly we're after. If that isn't proof that you'll give us something amazing yet again I don't know what is.
Here's to plenty of delightful trysts in the future tense.
xx
I think it will channel David Bowie and combine that with Pixies and some obscure literary characters (sans pretension). With all those forces harnessed, the 4 Matches will rebel against type and write an entire rock opera based around the theory of Matt Whalen.
It will be called "Still; The Matt(ches).
The new song is great, I would love to see more of that quirky dark edge that is in songs like "Their City" "Happy New Year" "Lazier Than furniture" "You don't know me" ect and also more of your slick catchy yet troubled stuff like "Didi(pt 2)" and "Future Tense"
So like the quirk and edge of Decomposer and the pop sensibility and self awareness of A Band in Hope
< insert painting here >
*flips paper*
*puts crayons back in box*
We're just like the kids in Mary Poppins making a list of how we want our new nanny to be like...
Does that mean we'll get an album with more songs than physically possible to put on one cd?
Dear The Matches,
I like your music. You are all very nice and interesting. Please keep building lovely albums.
One comment i will make? Several people have commented about the dark and creative sounds on songs such as 24C. I say whole-heartedly "YES!" But with one small caution. I have no fear of this happening of course, but please don't sacrifice your excellent melodic sensibilities, or your heroic guitar riffs for the sake of creativity. Too often i have seen bands alienate their fans by trying to re-invent themselves too much too fast. I'm all for evolution, but gradually please.
(for examples please see The Ataris and Brand New)
Aaaw awesome! can't wait =D
I love a Band In Hope but I miss the energy which is in Decomposer and E. Von Dahl.
I THINK THE NEXT MATCHES ALBUM SHOULD BE PIRATE THYMED BECAUSE THAT WOULD BE SPIFFY :) I THINK SHAWN AND THE BOYS WOULD LOOK RATHER LOVELY IN SOME PIRATE-Y DIGGS. BUT IT SHOULD SOULD LIKE THE MATCHES XD {YOU KNOW SEXY AND DELISH AND WONDERFUL!} I THINK I SHOULD GET BONUS POINTS FOR MAKING EVERYONES EYES BLEED WITH THESE LARGE ANNOYING CAPSLOCK LETTERS!!!:D
WHATEVER IT IS IM SURE IT WILL BE AMAZING AS USUAL!!!
~MAGIX
I can't wait for this album. The Matches are so talented and quirky. No one else can create music quite like you can.
Ask a Gnome, I bet he would have all the answers you may need answered.
BRING BACK THE MAD SILENTIST!!
you have no idea how. unbelievably. unDENIABLY. cool that would be. and more psycho laughs. Those two things, along with your obvious genius, just do yo thang.
n___________n;;
YES! =D I'm just ecstatic that you'll be in the studio again. What it'll sound like? An eargasm, that's what. Come back to New Orleans again... maybe I can give you another sketch. -Ash
Like a few of the previous comments, I can never pin point the exact type of music you guys are. I know people try to pigeon-hole music, but yours should remain untamed, as that is the pure brilliance of your work. If your music is anything like what you have previously created, or nothing like it, im sure it will be a sucess. Progression is the key to success.
I also agree almost totally with this comment.....
But substitute a US Tour with another Aussie one... We love you!
The next Matches record will be an almighty fusion of all 3 records into one glorious crowning musical orgasm. I want it to have the raw sound of E.von Dahl, Jon's blazing guitar solos and more lyrical hooks than ever. I want it to have the funky bass beat of "My Soft and Deep" from Decomposer and the quirky soundeffects of Decomposer. I want it to have the delightful upbeat melody of "Wake the Sun" and crowd participation of "Yankee in a Chip Shop" from A Band in Hope.
For those of you who don't have a myspace:
"WE’RE UP FOR 2 INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS*
FINALISTS FOR BEST MUSIC VIDEO: THE MATCHES' "YANKEE IN A CHIP SHOP", AND FOR BEST WEBSITE DESIGN: WWW.THEMATCHES.COM
*register and rate the finalists here:
Music Video
and here:
Website Design
(there will be an official vote from the voice of the public held as well, which will be added to tally marks from the likes of Snoop Dogg and Butch Walker. More info on this to come...)"
:D
i wish you guys would do a little more like "e. von dahl killed the locals" but at the same time like "a band in hope", i miss the old stuff, but i love the new stuff.
Just be you.
Ah my brain.
You make me over think and pick apart.
I don’t hate it but I hate knowing that I may never know.
How often is the surface the simple truth of you?
Do you just have writers block?
Or certain things you want to hear, coupled with the knowledge of what words to say to bring you the ones you crave?
I do not mean to be rude about my thought on the topic, but will any of our words of praise really change the outcome of your music. Because that is what this is about right?
I'm sure you have been and will be effected by our words. As we are human and that is how we work. Though when I read this post my mind goes sideways as my head quizzically tilts in wonder of what you expected. Without even reading through any of the responses I know they are filed with praises of genius and brilliance. Which is not to say they are all undeserved as I, as much as the next matches connoisseur, am constantly impressed. Although constantly in wonder as well. It’s just that we couldn’t obviously know what the next one is going to be like. Heck you’re the writer and are you even for sure? We can assume that it will be an entertaining contradiction. The same ever changing sounds tied to the familiarity of difference that we know and love. And we can hope that the rule of assuming doesn’t come back to bite us. But when faced with this question we both know that a large portion of *insert whatever word was decided to properly fit those that listen to your music* are going tell shower you with praise. I’m sorry but honestly this post just seems to me like you are fishing for compliments. I could be wrong, it wouldn’t be the first time. Maybe you need to be constantly reassured of things, which is no crime. Maybe I have mistaken insecurities for arrogance and if this is the case then I do apologize. Maybe you have come to realize what I have come to realize about reaction and are just secretly amused with yourself, which I would not blame you for. Whatever your reasons don’t let your ego be gluttonous, that’s part of what draws us to you and your music.
I like the rest am looking forward to album number four. The Quattro
it's going to sound like a cross between dancing queen and an episode of larry king live.
you know, if i had to guess.
Amen, Kyra.
Hopefully, the next album is more like Decomposer or E. Von Dahl.
You still need to e-mail back a friend of mine, Shawn.
The Matches are going to continue making the almost pop music that makes my ears feel normal. They can do this because they have what it takes to be awesome and they always sing their lyrics with duende. I envision their next record being regarded among(st) the greatest compositions of all time (excluding all of that time before the 1980s). I know it will be full of multiple musical styles and I am almost certain that two of them are shoegaze. The Matches rock socks.
There's no way this is a real blog entry. I see no pointless fighting in the comments!
I am excited to hear what you guys come up with for the next album. I know it will be rad because you're the Matches and you're like that. I trust all of you completely to create something to pleasure my ears and make my heart swell. You've succeeded in doing this for the past three albums so I haven't lost faith.
This is just me, but I tend to like slower, more epic songs..
Most of my favourite songs are over 6 minutes, really emotional, heartfelt stuff. My favourite Matches songs are From 24c, The Barber's Unhappines, Darkness Rising, Clumsy Heart, Scratched Out, & Their City (love the drums)..
But as long as it's coming from you guys it'll be amazing, I'm sure.
Good luck :)
Anonymous, I am SO OFFENDED you would say this isn't a "real" blog entry. Since when do you control the definition of "real"? The entry is as real as you make it and I for one count this as one of the most real entries Shawn has ever made.
Shelly...it was a joke.
As was what I said? I was just trying to give you what you wanted, way to completely not play along.
And while I don't disapprove of this post, it's not like it's going down in the annals of Shawn's most brilliant blog posts...
That other anonymous poster wasn't me, Shelly. I got what you were doing, haha. PROVOKING ME, EH?
An IMPOSTER! The shock, the atrocity! How could I ever have doubted you, Anonymous? Can you ever forgive me?
Sigh. I suppose I could forgive you.
If there's anything I can do to prove I won't doubt again, just ask!
http://www.twitter.com/
That should happen for you guys.
You are all overthinking this.
It is a joke.
He's an artist, but you are not all individually his muses.
He's just curious. If he even reads this at all.
Wait, you mean musicians are people too? I for one am completely skeptical of this.
Musicians are robots, trained by scientists to entertains us mindless minions. They have no feelings...right?
Exactly. Music is a series of equations we humans translate as pleasing sounds.
The Matches suck. Shawn really needs to get over himself, because he truely is a louse and is NOT lovely.
I don't normally willing respond to the drama and feed the blog fire but this time. Ah i could not help myself.
I am just so mused with words.
"Big bad of cunts"(Really?)Sans Jon Dylan and Matt. Soooo then either Shawn is capable of being multiple cunts(talent?) OR you called Musburger a cunt?
But then again I hear that in some parts of Australia and Britain its more like a term of endearment...
Okay, wow. I feel bad for always responding to these little sparks that start blog fights, but just. Honestly? You guys who keep on saying things that are hurtful should really knock it off. If you don't like the Matches (or one member of the band, and this happens to be the blog of the member you supposedly don't like? erm, okay.) then you just don't respond. Hell, you don't even need to look at this blog, no one is duct taping your eyelids and turning your computer on and typing in this web address. If you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all. I mean, of course criticism is fine, but the other things that are just more . . . personal, it's just getting ridiculous. I'm sure Shawn can pick out the comments that are meaningful and the other ones that are just nonsense, and hopefully he doesn't take the ones that are just pure nonsense to heart, because they are not true. But even if he doesn't take them to heart, that doesn't give you the reason to say vulgar and hurtful things to him. I don't know whether he takes it seriously or not, but even if he doesn't it may still effect him. I mean, my friends and I insult and joke around with each other all the time, but even though I know we're joking sometimes they just take it too far, and if someone says something enough times, even if they're kidding, it can get to you. Like I said, I have no idea how Shawn takes these comments in, but just, come on you guys, he's human. Give him a break.
I hate how I always get into these things, but just, come on now, honestly. It's getting ridiculous. He makes music for us, he has this blog to stay in contact with us, he really does care for us. I don't know what he's done to make you so resentful of him, or maybe it's just for attention, but either way, I don't think you need to constantly stir up trouble because of it.
and now I am going to take this in a totally different direction and be a whore and say that the Matches should come down to Southern California soon and play a few shows!
In keeping with the tone of Amber Rose's eloquent pwn, I have this to say:
Seriously, if you're posting on a blog of someone you don't like just to tell them you don't like them, you really need to develop a hobby. Go scrapbook or something.
all i have to say is...
http://www.sanity.com.au/product/product.asp?sku=2117828
..what i meant to say was...
http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o146/sanfransuzi/WhySoSerious.jpg
...i'm wearing the t-shirt in the previous link right now...so it all makes sense, The Joke is alive inside of me today. And not as a parasitic fetus either...just so you know...
**Joker.
fuck. i fail. ugh.
s,
My shirt pwns yours...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/thebruce0/2388665422/in/photostream/
(not my picture, just my shirt)
I am also wearing it at this very moment.
Coincidence? Perhaps...
coincidence?
or true lovers?
Lovers, I say.
so apparently on some computers that whole photobucket link doesn't show.
sanfransuzi/ is follwed by
WhySoSerious.jpg
S,
Should I stamp a giant "FAIL" on your forehead?
v_v you really should.
no more blog posting while tired and under the influence of creaming soda.
ahaha
-reaches through your computer screen with a stamp-
It's okay though, it washes off.
I think the new Matches CD will include a DVD that was promised almost a year ago!
Im sure it will be amazing as always.
But i do hope they kinda hit E. Von Dahl Killed the Locals era again. My gosh, that was amazing.
I like how random outbursts of love seem quell the Heavy Breeding drama llama : )
this is true, when i tell people that the matches are my favorite band and they ask me to describe you guys, i simply cant
all i can say to them is "they're different, but not in a bad way, they're extremely talented musicians, they're insane. i don't know they're just amazing. here, listen to them."
haha
but seriously every album just gets better and better, you never cease to amaze me. I can never predict what your new music will sound like, because although it is all cohesive, it is all so different. every record is extremely different from the others, but also similar. it's amazing.
im sure the next matches album will not dissapoint, and im sure you guys will create completely new sounds that haven't been heard before, but sound amazing. i'm sure it will be amazing.
another thing i've noticed about your music? it NEVER gets old.
With the next album that is going to be released by The Matches, i expect exactly what i expected for the last album, and that is that the result will be unexpected. Yes, that uses the word "expected" a lot, but I feel it is the only way to get my point across. No matter what we say we expect the next album to be, we will always be surprised by just how unique it is. We could sit here for weeks and argue about the genre or the type of music it will be, but none of us will be right. The only way to be correct in saying what the next CD will be is to say that it will be just as creative and just as innovative as the last CD, maybe even more. The musical and lyrical genius will still be there, but the form it takes will be completely different then before and, of course, completely unexpected.
i wrote this on paper but i didn't know your mailing address so i think that for the past decade you guys have improved your sound and honestly i think how you've all grown as people your music has grown into you i remember seeing you guys with a friend of mine listening to the original "what katie said" "boston" "the beast" "megan in mean" when you were the locals you guys wrote about what you knew so you guys have grown up alot from 24 C i remember watching you play that at the CD release shows and thinking is he gonna cry? but i think that you and the band will make a cd worth listening to for the next 10 years and after that i'll make sure my kids know all your songs shawn the first time i met you you had a mohawk and smelt of sweat the last time i saw you you told me you would draw that rabbit man thing from oxen before a show so i could get it tattooed and you smelt of sweat but you walked up and for me and my girl sang jack slap cheer for us i know that you know your fans are what keep you guys working but i know that you dont make music for us you make music that you enjoy playing which seems to be what we want to hear so really shawn ..... What do you think the album is going to be like? what do you want it to sound like? and when can we hang out some time i live in cali around antelope vally so when you decide to answer me you could like maybe just saying put a post up in reply to this and answer those questions (maybe drop my name i might pee my pants) lol or you could give me a call 575 921 1817 if i dont pick up just leave me a message i'll call you back i work alot so yeah i hope that you keep playing music and having a good time doing it.... your my hero and i will listen to anything you put of there but who knows if your gonna read this either so yeah ...
Call me shallow but i liked that 90's punk feel of E. Von Dahl. Throw in some cool (maybe dancable?) beats like "Drive" for Decomposer, some witty lyrics like in "To Build a Mountain" that make you ponder. Then put it over some iceberg lettuce and mixed greens and toss that salad.
by the way, the word "annals" makes me giggle like an atheist watching tele-evangelists
If every song was exactly like scratched out. I'd be satisfied. I miss the E. Von Dahl Killed the Locals sound. A Band In Hope didn't do for me. Decomposer was better but nothing beats the first cd.
I think the next album will fill the space in my head like your albums always do. I want it to be the stuff of dreams, different from everything else you wrote except the same. I believe my premonitions comply with my wishes quite well. Not that it matters what I wish, because no matter what the next album is like, it'll be amazing
Well, all three have shown such growth. Each was lovelier than the last... But I really enjoyed the direction you were going in with A Band In Hope. You've always been ones to create a new sound, so by all means do it =)
<3
As long as you let Jon sing a little bit more on this album, I'll be completely satisfied.
Honestly, i think it should contain the flair that Decomposer let off. I think the next album should have the same witty lyrics as Decomposer and mention Yvonne Doll in one of their songs, like they have in the past. I think they should have the same enthusiasm as E. Von Dahl and the diverity of songs like in A Band In Hope.
Their next album should incorperate their past and maybe give us a hint of what their next album will be like. I think as for a title, to be called The Mad Silentist, like they originally planned for A Band in Hope.
That is what Their next album should be like.
Jessa said...
As long as you let Jon sing a little bit more on this album, I'll be completely satisfied.
YES
YES
AND
YES
I've got friends who tear apart the songs they listen to and say "well the bass line was good but i don't like the drums and the guitar could have been a tad better" and it does my head in. i appreciate the instrumental part of songs but what makes or breaks a song for me is the lyrics, and i think that's why I'm such a matches fan. i love the lyrics you write and the play on words you use a lot and just the way you phrase things. don't listen to me because i can't write lyrics as good as yours but the one constant in your albums for me is the wonderful lyrics, because they are vastly different instrumental sounds. just keep writing amazing lyrics and I'll approve =)
I've got friends who tear apart the songs they listen to and say "well the bass line was good but i don't like the drums and the guitar could have been a tad better" and it does my head in. i appreciate the instrumental part of songs but what makes or breaks a song for me is the lyrics, and i think that's why I'm such a matches fan. i love the lyrics you write and the play on words you use a lot and just the way you phrase things. don't listen to me because i can't write lyrics as good as yours but the one constant in your albums for me is the wonderful lyrics, because they are vastly different instrumental sounds. just keep writing amazing lyrics and I'll approve =)
sorry to repeat myself, my internet is seriously dodgy today o.O
Hmm..
I believe that the next album will surprise us all. ((With how amazing it is of course)) With more sing along choruses and lyrics that dont quite seem to make sense, but then at the exact same time, making so much sense it makes you're head hurt.
Like icecream trucks or cvs pharmacies!
<3
Like a bunch of rabbits humping the fuck outta each other while listening to a hybrid mix of E. Von Dahl and Decomposer mixed with a dash of ice.
ha, I'm clever
I saw this and thought immediately thought of Heavy Breeding, and since one of the last comments is about fucking rabbits..
http://failblog.files.wordpress.com/2008/11/fail-owned-making-rabbits-book-for-children-fail.jpg
I think that the next Matches album is gonna come in CD format and include a booklet donning the album title with some type of album art. I want it to be a Matches album! Duh! Maybe have the dissonant sounds of some songs from E. Von Dahl and much of Decomposer, but also be wacky like Oingo Boingo and Adam Ant!
diverse!
i think each song should sound different and evoke a different emotion in the listener. i think one amazing matches album has the ability to help a person through a loss or pain and then help that same person get out and dance afterwards.
and personally, i love the matches songs that you can scream along to at a concert or just in your best friend's passenger seat.
I think you should have the energy of e. von dahl, and the everything from all 3 albums into one.
and the rest.
Another new flavor of big mac, maybe?
After a failed- attempted ETA: Though random, I think the use of a harmonica would make for some more interestingly cool music. =]
In every Matches CD, I find myself falling in love with a song that I like to think was written for me. Sometimes, since the lyrics are so perfectly put together, it's hard to believe they weren't. In the next Matches CD, I would like to find another one of those songs and post bulletins everywhere with those lyrics. Also, I'd love to hear a song I can learn something from. Every other album thus far has given me that so, basically, write WHATEVER your precious hearts desire.
And no matter what, I love you all. Please come back to New York [preferably Albany]?
Happy Holidays! <3
I loved E. Von Dahl, I then excitedly purchased Decomposer the day it was released only to be disappointed. Upon listening to the album a second time I was surprised at how much I liked it. Over time Decomposed became my favorite thing to listen to next to Alkaline Trio's "From Here to Infirmary". I proudly expressed at every chance that The Matches were by far the most artistic and articulate composers of our time(no pun intended with the [De]composer btw). So when the newest album came out of course i knew i was going to have to adjust to it. I liked it in a way that robbed me blind of reason. What's even great about "A Band in Hope"? I mean i listened to it with my mom on the way back from BestBuy. Soon enough i could barely keep myself from memorizing the lyrics only to get a better grip on their upfront meanings, i was obsessed and wanted to theorize about their deeper meanings. So now that I have a one-mile walk to class through the treacherous streets of east Cleveland, I walk with an awkward smile at my amateur interpretations of any particular Matches song i feel like listening to, maybe even some songs that aren't so available to the public...maybe some that i got from a certain vault. I've heard most everything that you guys have done and i love every second of it whether it be the number one radio hit or the crappiest recording of a "bad boys" remake. I want this album to be different because i want it to be pure Matches and I know that The Matches haven't engraved one genre into their resume, i absolutely love hearing the different experimental sounds that you create. I don't care if it's not great, it's inspiring to know that musicians haven't all receded from intelligence. i don't know. just make sure there are still guitars and Shawn is still singing and it should all sound fine to me. I believe i wrote too much. ahhh when I am reading this at 1:33 at night i am just in a typing mood and i often say more than i want, and in some ways i don't make sense and therefore say less than i want. eh, bedtime. can't wait to hear the album when it is done.
p.s. i wrote an academic paper on "Clouds Crash" and cited this blog many times. haha. i wonder if a college paper would even get away with that is my professor only knew that i was citing a blog.
XD
-August
In my experience, no matter what the Matches make it is certain to be different, filled to the brim with sounds that are truly complementary, and wholly bizarre. I have to say that I was slightly caught off-gaurd with A Band in Hope. It took me some time to enjoy it, and I must admit that I am not completely convinced that it is pure genius. Some may argue, but acceptance comes with time. I should say that I am 98.7% sure that no matter what the Matches crank out of their systems, I will recommend it to others. It is agreed when your band is brought up, it is difficult to pinpoint adjectives that describe what the music contains. I realize that I continue to contradict myself. The truth is that I will forever be a fan of the Matches no matter how unsatisfied I am with a certain album. I have complete faith that the next album will be true to your sound. Just do what you have been doing and I will admire whatever the final product is.
-S.Bohm
I'd like to see a few more songs with fast energy. Other than that, I'll be buying it either way anywho.
Each album is a standalone tribute to music-- each in its own form. I have no idea how it's going to flow, but it will. I would love to have the next album resemble you rediscovering your roots. I started high school listening to the Locals and graduated on Decomposer. I always enjoy listening to The Matches because your style is varying. Is funk out? (couldn't resist).
I just want to see where you take us next.
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