Lighting Matches cover

Lighting Matches

Tom Grennan · 2018

56 min · 16 tracks · alternative rock

A vibrant blend of indie pop and rock, infused with soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with personal experiences.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Found What I’ve Been Looking For — This track effectively showcases Grennan's signature vocal delivery while exploring themes of longing and self-discovery, setting the emotional tone for the album.
  • →
    Run in the Rain — With its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm, this song captures a sense of resilience and optimism, making it a standout moment on the album.
  • →
    Little by Little Love — The intimate lyrics and gentle instrumentation highlight Grennan's ability to convey vulnerability, representing a more tender side of his artistry.

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 showcases solid songwriting and engaging performances but lacks standout moments that elevate it significantly.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong, upbeat track that sets a lively tone, followed by three more mid-tempo songs before introducing slower ballads.
  • Grennan's vocal delivery is prominent throughout, often layered with harmonies that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics.
  • Several tracks feature a consistent use of anthemic choruses, creating memorable hooks that invite listener participation.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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, consistent energy levels
  • uplifting yet reflective moments
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2018, Lighting Matches marked Tom Grennan's debut studio album following his successful EPs. At this point in his career, he had gained recognition through singles like 'Found What I've Been Looking For,' establishing him as a fresh voice in the UK music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
James Bay· Sam Fender· Ed Sheeran

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Found What I’ve Been Looking For 3:12
  • 2 Royal Highness 3:13
  • 3 Barbed Wire 3:05
  • 4 Run in the Rain 3:57
  • 5 Aboard 3:53
  • 6 Lighting Matches 3:29
  • 7 Lucky Ones 3:33
  • 8 Sober 3:43
  • 9 I Might 2:53
  • 10 Make ’em Like You 3:39
  • 11 Something in the Water 3:27
  • 12 Little by Little Love 3:41
  • 13 Praying 3:05
  • 14 Secret Lover 3:58
  • 15 Sweet Hallelujah 3:45
  • 16 All Goes Wrong (acoustic) 3:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata