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>> GRAMMY-WINNING BAND STICKS WITH SUCCESSFUL STYLE ON NEW ALBUM
Train still chugging along with Grammy-winning sound on new album
Date published: 11/5/2009
BY JESSE SCOTT FOR THE FREE LANCE-STAR As the old saying goes, why fix something that isn't broken? For Train, the next chapter has been less about pushing the envelope and more about returning to its simple, yet magnetic, charm. After a three-year hiatus, the Grammy Award-winning rock group--best known for radio hits like "Meet Virginia," "Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)" and "Calling All Angels"--has returned with its original lineup and a record that very well could produce another hit or two. "We're back to the roots of the band," said lead singer Patrick Monahan in a phone interview from Chicago. "We've stepped back and returned to the band's original essence, and we're focused on organic, heartfelt music." Train's latest album, "Save Me, San Francisco," hit shelves last Tuesday. It's chock-full of bluesy pop riffs that seamlessly fill a room and, with Monahan's piercing vocals, is worth setting on repeat. And for fans who absolutely hate it when a band egotistically alters its sound for something "different" or "innovative," you won't be let down. Train knows what it does best, and the band has stuck to it with this record. "Save Me, San Francisco" is Train's fifth studio album and the first since "My Private Nation" dropped in 2003. The new album pays tribute to a city it holds so dear, and where everything seemingly came together for the trio (Monahan, guitarist Jimmy Stafford and drummer Scott Underwood). "The band started out in San Francisco it's where we originated," said Monahan. "Currently we don't live there, but we really credit all of the amazing people there for making us a household name." Now a resident of Seattle, Monahan still reflects on his vivid memories of the Bay area. "When I go to Marin [County] and step out of my car and smell the air there, whether it's raining or sunny, it's unforgettable," said Monahan. "Marin, for me, means a whole lot. Just being in San Francisco and crossing the Golden Gate Bridge to do shows. It's insanely beautiful." Over the next month, Train will certainly see its share of bridges, bays and roads. The band will play the 9:30 Club in Washington with Uncle Kracker on Sunday. "The tour has been going great, but I am really trying to get over being sick," laughed Monahan. "There's been a ton of people every night, and we've been playing great." Through sickness, health and hiatus, Train has the catalog and live presence to stay on the right track. "We would really love some more platinum albums and Grammys that would be nice," laughed Monahan. "But really, we're all about hanging onto Train fans and getting some new ones." Jesse Scott, of Fredericksburg,
Date published: 11/5/2009
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