What makes Chip Tooth Smile by Rob Thomas notable?

Chip Tooth Smile debuted at number 4 on the Billboard 200, marking a successful return for Thomas after nearly a decade since his last solo album. The album received mixed reviews but was noted for its exploration of themes like aging and resilience, resonating with both fans and critics as it reflected Thomas's personal growth. Released in 2019, Chip Tooth Smile is Rob Thomas's third solo studio album, following his 2009 release, Cradlesong. At this point in his career, Thomas was navigating a transition from his earlier solo successes and the fame from Matchbox Twenty, seeking to redefine his sound with contemporary touches while maintaining his signature lyrical style.

Who is Chip Tooth Smile for?

Chip Tooth Smile works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, thoughtful lyrics for introspection and background music for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on Chip Tooth Smile?

Chip Tooth Smile has 12 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Chip Tooth Smile

Rob Thomas · 2019

39 min · 12 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of introspective lyrics and melodic hooks layered over a mix of rock and pop influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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One Less Day (Dying Young) — This opening track sets the album's reflective tone by contemplating mortality and living fully, showcasing Thomas's lyrical depth and catchy melody.
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Timeless — A standout love song that juxtaposes nostalgia with hope, reinforcing the emotional core of the album through its heartfelt delivery.
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The Worst in Me — This track captures vulnerability as it candidly explores self-awareness and personal flaws, making it a poignant moment on the record.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

43 /100

Lowland

Higher than 2% of albums we've rated

The album features solid songwriting and production but lacks standout moments that elevate it beyond its genre.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces slower ballads that shift the overall energy.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, creating a rich texture that enhances the melodic hooks.
The lyrics often reflect on personal themes and introspection, with a notable focus on aging and self-reflection throughout multiple tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo reflective moments
thoughtful lyrics for introspection
background music for casual gatherings
sing-along choruses with friends

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2019, Chip Tooth Smile is Rob Thomas's third solo studio album, following his 2009 release, Cradlesong. At this point in his career, Thomas was navigating a transition from his earlier solo successes and the fame from Matchbox Twenty, seeking to redefine his sound with contemporary touches while maintaining his signature lyrical style.
Stylistic neighbors: Matchbox Twenty· John Mayer· Lifehouse