It’s doubtful anyone would have predicted where Train’s career was headed when the Bay Area band had its first hit in 1998 with the laid-back roots-rocker “Meet Virginia.” At that time, Train sounded a bit like other pop-friendly bands with jangly guitars, such as Counting Crows and Matchbox Twenty. But Train has evolved with the times, and while some of the band’s contemporaries are busy with nostalgia tours, Train is still racking up radio hits and headlining major venues. “Meet Virginia” was followed by a slew of successful singles, including “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me),” “Calling All Angels” and “Hey, Soul Sister.”
And as Train’s popularity has grown, it’s become more of a pop act, with lead singer Pat Monahan as the only remaining original member. Monahan still has a full band behind him, of course, and it’s not like he’s trying to be the next Justin Bieber. But he’s managed to keep Train relevant and popular by changing with the times, and that’s not easy for any musical act to do, no matter how they get their start.
The Pearl at Palms, 8 p.m. Aug. 3, starting at $59 plus tax and fee. 702.944.3200
