The American band Train, led by singer Pat Monahan, began as a roots-rock band and grew into a global hit machine. Their music is characterized by Monahan’s high, unique vocal sound and a talent for irresistible melodies that balance between pop, rock, and folk.
Whether it concerns intimate ballads or cheerful sing-alongs, Train always knows how to strike a chord of recognition. Their lyrics are often narrative and evocative, wrapped in productions that hold their own both on the radio and in a stadium.
10. Shake Up Christmas
A modern Christmas classic that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The atmosphere is festive and energetic, with ringing bells and a driving rhythm. It captures the feeling of joy and togetherness. Monahan’s voice is remarkably powerful and soulful here. The song has that typical, commercial Train sound, but with enough sincerity to avoid sounding like a cheap Christmas tune.
9. Bruises (feat. Ashley Monroe)
A charming duet with country singer Ashley Monroe. The song skips along cheerfully, despite lyrics about encountering an old school friend and the scars that life has left behind. The chemistry between the voices is pleasant and light. The folk influences are clearly audible here, creating a nostalgic and summery atmosphere.
8. Mermaid
With its Caribbean rhythms and steel drums, this is Train at their sunniest. The song is pure happiness, an ode to an unattainable beauty on an island. The lyrics are playful and full of humorous references. It is not high-brow poetry, but a perfectly executed pop song that immediately puts a smile on your face.
7. Calling All Angels
One of their earlier hits, showing a more serious side of the band. It is a mid-tempo rock song about searching for hope and guidance in a confusing world. The production is broad and spatial. The chorus is grand and pleading. At the time, the song became an anthem for uncertain times and still carries an emotional weight that touches many people.
6. Angel in Blue Jeans
A surprising mix of pop-rock and spaghetti western influences. The guitar sounds like a tribute to Ennio Morricone, creating a tough and cinematic atmosphere. The chorus is explosive and catchy. Monahan sings with an almost theatrical drama about a mysterious woman. A successful experiment that shows the band dares to play with genres.
5. 50 Ways to Say Goodbye
A hilarious song featuring Mexican mariachi trumpets. The lyrics are about a man who is too proud to admit he has been dumped, and therefore invents the most bizarre causes of death for his ex (eaten by a lion, fell into cement). The energy is manic and infectious. The contrast between the cheerful music and the morbid lyrics is golden. A perfect sing-along for the pub.
4. Drive By
A tight pop-rock track with a compelling beat. The song is about a one-night stand that grows into true love. The “Oh-oh” choirs make it instantly recognizable. The production is slick and modern. Monahan almost raps in the verses, only to belt out fully in the chorus. It is Train as a well-oiled hit machine at full speed.
3. Marry Me
A sober, acoustic ballad that became a worldwide wedding favorite. There is little more than a guitar and Monahan’s voice, which creates an intimate, fragile atmosphere. The lyrics about love at first sight in a café are simple and romantic. The song proves that you don’t need a massive production to convey a great feeling.
2. Hey, Soul Sister
The song that brought the ukulele back to pop music. It sounds deceptively simple, but the melody is brilliant in its catchiness. It became one of the best-selling singles of all time. The vibe is carefree and optimistic. Monahan’s high notes (“Hey-ey-ey”) are iconic. Although often overplayed, the musical craftsmanship behind this earworm remains unmistakable.
1. Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)
Their absolute masterpiece. Written after the passing of Monahan’s mother, he imagines her returning from a journey through the universe. The string arrangements (by Paul Buckmaster, who also worked with Elton John) are beautiful and compelling. The song is grand, spiritual, and comforting. The piano melody carries the track, and the lyrics are full of poetic imagery (“Fried chicken”, “Soy latte”).
