Matchbook Romance

Matchbook Romance is an American emo/post-hardcore band known for their emotive lyrics, dynamic instrumentation, and passionate performances. Here are several key facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Matchbook Romance was formed in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 1997. The band originally consisted of vocalist Andrew Jordan, guitarist Ryan "Judas" DePaolo, bassist Ryan Kienle, and drummer Aaron Stern. They quickly gained a following in the local music scene with their energetic live shows and heartfelt songwriting.

2. Musical Style and Influences: Matchbook Romance's music is characterized by its fusion of emo, post-hardcore, and alternative rock elements. Drawing inspiration from bands like Thursday, Taking Back Sunday, and Brand New, Matchbook Romance crafted anthemic songs with soaring melodies, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyrics. Their emotionally charged music resonated with fans of the emo and post-hardcore genres, earning them a dedicated following.

3. Breakthrough Success: Matchbook Romance gained widespread recognition with the release of their debut album, "Stories and Alibis", in 2003. The album featured the hit singles "Promise" and "My Eyes Burn", which received heavy rotation on alternative rock radio stations and MTV. "Stories and Alibis" showcased the band's knack for crafting catchy hooks and infectious choruses, solidifying their status as rising stars in the emo/post-hardcore scene.

4. Continued Success and Evolution: Following the success of their debut album, Matchbook Romance released their sophomore effort, "Voices", in 2006. The album further showcased the band's growth and musical maturity, featuring a more polished sound and introspective lyrics. Although "Voices" didn't achieve the same commercial success as their debut, it received positive reviews from critics and maintained the band's loyal fan base.

5. Legacy and Impact: Matchbook Romance left a lasting impact on the emo/post-hardcore genre with their anthemic songs and passionate performances. While they disbanded in 2007, their music continues to resonate with fans old and new, serving as a reminder of the genre's heyday in the early 2000s. Matchbook Romance's influence can be heard in the music of subsequent generations of emo and post-hardcore bands, who have drawn inspiration from their emotive songwriting and dynamic sound.

Overall, Matchbook Romance remains a beloved and influential band in the emo/post-hardcore scene, cherished by fans for their heartfelt lyrics and powerful music.