Matchbox 20 - Yourself Or Someone Like You 320cbr (Big Papi) 1996

"Yourself or Somebody Like You", the debut effort of Matchbox 20 is simply brilliant. Most of the released singles are well known due to excessive air play, but this album is full of incredible music. There is not a bad song on this album. Matchbox 20 has been made trendy by teeny boppers and yuppies, unfairly labeling the band in some ways as a joke. The music is catchy and poppy, but not synthesized or studio created. This is genuine, soulful rock, just with a lighter edge. However, the most amazing thing are the lyrics. You can open the booklet and feel like you are reading poetry, full of truth and insight that only the likes of Rob Thomas could pen. His unique voice breathes life into his words, creating powerful songs which give purpose to pop radio again. Besides the well-known songs "Push", "3 am", "Real World", and "Back to Good", there are other incredible songs which deserve time. Ranging from the beautifully candid "Long Day" to the snappy "Girl Like That", to the intense "Kody", the album's music reflects the diverse genius of the band. Experiencing homelessness and other pain, lead singer Rob Thomas said he spent his whole life writing this album - seen vividly in the quality of the music and the clever lyrics.