ROB THOMAS - SOMETHING TO BE

As the founder and frontman of Matchbox Twenty, Rob Thomas is no stranger to the charts. Beyond the success of his band, Thomas has found a voice in collaborations with music greats like Carlos Santana and Mick Jagger, and with Something to Be, he steps out completely on his own.

The voice is familiar, but the sound rocks a little harder and samples more flavors and styles than was found in Matchbox Twenty's repertoire. The difference is noticeable from the beginning track, "This is How a Heart Breaks," which immediately sets the album's pace. Driven by the powerful drums of Gerald Heyward, the song is musically catchy and showcases Thomas' voice perfectly. The song takes the very personal experience of having one's heart broken and makes it into a universal, almost formulaic, action.

The album's first single, "Lonely No More," draws upon Latin influences, which also are peppered throughout the album and effectively spice it up. The song is reminiscent of "Smooth," his hit collaboration with Carlos Santana, but it definitely has its own feel. Thomas looks at the desire to find that one person who will be there forever, and before either of them make any promises, he makes it perfectly clear what he does -- and doesn't -- want from a relationship.

Much of the work on Something to Be touches on heartache and loss, so "All That I Am" is a refreshing break from the dark undercurrents of Thomas' lyrics. On "All That I Am," he finds a renewed appreciation for love and the way that it makes him a better person. It is a gentle, flowing piece of work that relies on unique instrumentation and Thomas' distinctive vocals to get its message across.

On "My, My, My," he tackles immortality and how what we accomplish in our short time on this planet can live on long after we're gone. It is a gentle and thoughtful musical piece that suits the introspective nature of the lyrics.

To close the album, Thomas offers up the simple but beautiful, "Now Comes the Night." Stripped of accompanying drums and guitars, this reflective piano-driven number is soft and sentimental. The message it conveys is one of hope, love and tenderness; he talks of being there for the one he loves through the coldest of storms and the darkest of nights. Thomas uses beautiful imagery and this album's closing is a beautiful and lingering benediction.

Thomas draws on a number of influences -- Latin, funk, R&B, and good ol' rock and roll -- to deliver his solo musical message. Thanks to some bold and unusual instrumentation, and some great backing musicians (including John Mayer), the disparate influences are blended seamlessly here. Thomas has made Something to Be the album to own.

The DualDisc also contains some nice extras, such as a behind-the-scenes documentary of recording and songwriting sessions, a photo gallery and lyrics.

By Paula Felps