Matchbox Twenty - More Than You Think You Are [2LP Violet]

Matchbox Twenty went bigger and bolder on More Than You Think You Are, their 2002 album, here on colored vinyl as part of a limited Rocktober brick-and-mortar release.

After two massive albums and Rob Thomas's huge success with Santana's "Smooth," the band returned with a confident, rock-leaning record that showed off their range and ambition. Producer Matt Serletic, who had helmed their earlier hits, gave the songs a punchy, polished sound with plenty of room for the band's guitars to roar.

"Unwell" became one of their defining songs, a jaunty, banjo-tinged confession about anxiety that connected with millions of listeners. "Bright Lights" is a slow-building piano ballad that swells into a soaring finale, while "Disease," co-written by Thomas with Mick Jagger, struts along on a gritty, bluesy riff. "Feel" opens the album with crunchy, upbeat energy that shows how much fun the band were having.

Thomas's lyrics balance self-doubt and hope throughout, and his warm, raspy voice makes even the darkest moments feel relatable and human.

It is a big, generous pop-rock record from one of the most reliable bands of the era, and the colored vinyl gives longtime fans a fresh excuse to sing along to every word all over again.