The Real Thing (Faith No More album)

The Real Thing is the third studio album by American rock band Faith No More, released in June 1989. It was their first album to feature Mike Patton on vocals, following the departure of Chuck Mosley.

The album marked a significant stylistic shift for Faith No More, incorporating elements of funk, metal, hip-hop, and progressive rock. Patton's vocal range and eclectic delivery played a crucial role in shaping the band's new sound.

The Real Thing was a commercial breakthrough for Faith No More, peaking at number 11 on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. The album spawned several successful singles, including "Epic," which reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Epic" became the band's signature song and is widely credited with introducing them to a mainstream audience. Other notable tracks include "From Out of Nowhere," "Falling to Pieces," and the title track, "The Real Thing."

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative sound, Patton's vocal performance, and the band's musicianship. It is often considered a landmark album in alternative metal and a significant influence on subsequent generations of musicians. The Real Thing has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album cemented Faith No More's reputation as one of the most original and influential bands of the late 1980s and early 1990s.