For two decades, Kyle Cook spent the bulk of his musical life as the lead guitarist of Matchbox Twenty. He co-wrote some of the songs and invented many of the instrumental riffs that have become distinguishing parts in such radio staples as “ Real World,” “Unwell” and “Bent.” But plenty of his creative persona was held in check as he collaborated in a team effort. With Wolves, his solo debut, Cook invests so much of himself in the project that a discerning listener can get a good idea of who the guitar player really is. He’s a studied musician with an all-American Midwestern background, a guy who has a penchant for classic rock with just enough classical training to make him dangerous, and an adult whose experiences with the cycle of love and loss are extraordinarily familiar. Wolves explores the complicated progression of heartbreak and healing while shining a light on his musical influences. The Queen-ish guitar tones in “Better This Way”, the Tom Petty-sounding foundation of “Wishing Well” and The Eagles-like harmonies in “I Would've Left Me Too” all point to the kinds of popular music – melodic songs with sturdy-but-simple arrangements – that influenced his ascent.