The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, I was able to see The Maine for the fifth time at their hometown show in Phoenix, Arizona. This show was unique as the band played their two latest albums in whole. First, the band performed their newest record, Lovely Little Lonely. Lead singer John O’Callaghan and his band walked on stage in their white suits performing Don’t Come Down throughHow Do You Feel? Once the album was performed front to back, the band left the stage and had a small intermission. After around ten minutes, The Maine returned to perform their more pop-rock album, American Candy.

Even though this was my fifth time seeing the band, I was just as excited as always! The Maine is always doing new things for their fans, whether it be a free tour or free meet and greets. That is one thing I love about this five-piece Arizona rock band. They have gone through it all with record labels and low budgets, but have always kept their fans as their priority. Nowadays, it is very common to see artists charge their fans hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars to meet them for the full “VIP Experience.” As we all want to meet the people we look up to, we end up paying these artists lots of money for a small encounter. One of my favorite things about this band is their morals and dedication and this is why I will never regret a cent I have spent on them. They believe in meeting their fans for free because “Why would you pay to meet a human being?”

Back to their show!

When the band performed their more rock-driven album, Lovely Little Lonely, it was awesome to see the audience's reaction. The crowd knew the songs word for word and danced all night! Not only did the band sound awesome and look great, their stage was perfectly decorated. This album was a big hit for the band as they were able to experiment with their sound. Songs like Black Butterflies and Dėjà Vu experimented with a pop-punk vibe, whereas I Only Wanna Talk To You has been frequently compared to an Oasis sound, which is a big compliment to the band as Oasis is a big inspiration to most rock bands.

The band's usual engagement with the audience and transition into the next album was great. American Candy is a classic alternative pop-rock album that makes you feel good and appreciate life. Songs like Miles Away and Am I Pretty? encouraged the crowd to sing along and dance, whereas 24 Floors brought a more sentimental vibe towards the audience.

Once the show ended, the band did their annual meet and greet with their audience. As it is my fifth time seeing the band, I have grown to know these guys on a personal level. It is awesome that the band treats their fan base like family. Each conversation I have had with this band has been two-sided and left me with a smile on my face.

I definitely encourage you to go see the Maine in concert or listen to their music if you haven't already!