Something Like a Storm cover

Something Like a Storm

Matthew Good · 2017

43 min · 9 tracks · alternative rock

An introspective blend of acoustic melodies and alternative rock rhythms that convey emotional depth and lyrical storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Bad Guys Win — Opening the album, this track sets a tone of defiance and frustration, encapsulating themes of conflict and social commentary that are prevalent throughout.
  • →
    Something Like a Storm — The title track serves as a reflective centerpiece, combining haunting melodies with lyrics that explore vulnerability and resilience in the face of chaos.
  • →
    Bullets in a Briefcase — This closing track showcases Good's storytelling prowess, weaving together imagery of turmoil and introspection that leaves a lasting impression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The album blends acoustic melodies with alternative rock, showcasing strong lyrical themes and emotional depth.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks feature a consistent use of layered acoustic guitars and introspective lyrics, establishing a reflective mood.
  • Several songs incorporate dynamic shifts, moving from soft verses to more powerful choruses, particularly in 'Bad Guys Win' and 'Men at the Door'.
  • The final track, 'Bullets in a Briefcase', concludes with a gradual fade-out, leaving an unresolved emotional tone.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • introspective moments of reflection
  • narrative-driven lyrical exploration
  • emotional depth in acoustic melodies
  • evening wind-down listening experience

Maybe skip if you

  • need for upbeat tempos
  • prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2017, Something Like a Storm is Matthew Good's first studio album in over four years, following his 2013 release, Arrows of Desire. At this point in his career, Good was transitioning into a more mature sound while grappling with personal experiences that deeply influenced his songwriting.
Stylistic neighbors
David Gray· Gavin DeGraw· The Fray

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Bad Guys Win 4:24
  • 2 Decades 3:40
  • 3 Men at the Door 4:55
  • 4 There the First Time 4:49
  • 5 Days Come Down 4:09
  • 6 Something Like a Storm 5:55
  • 7 She’s Got You Where She Wants You 4:11
  • 8 This Is Night 4:58
  • 9 Bullets in a Briefcase 6:23

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata