Hard to believe it's been three years since we watched Elliott Yamin on American Idol. He started season five flying just under the radar but soared to a third place finish, capturing more than his share of hearts, including mine, with his soulful tones and expressive delivery. He impressed even the most cynical of judges, Simon Cowell, who called him a "vocal masterclass."
His first post-Idol album (self-titled) was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching gold status and hitting number three on Billboard's Independent Artist chart. His follow-up, Fight For Love, hits streets May 5 and by every right should achieve the same success, if not reach new heights.
For long time fans, there are no surprises on this album, but that doesn't mean it isn't innovative. The sound — ambient and bluesy — is what Yamin is known for, but by no means do the twelve tracks blend to a single sound. Each represents and shows something new. They may or may not reflect a personal side or emotions coming straight from his heart, but his delivery convinces you every song is a private secret he's sharing with the listener.
The first single from the album is also the title track. The video (seen above) was directed by Nick Spanos, known for his work with Madonna, Alanis Morissette, and Paul Oakenfold, and does a wonderful job of matching the images with the mood of the music. Soft, with light muted colors is the perfect visual descriptor for the easy-pop sound of this song and, for the most part, the entire album.
One of the minor shifts comes from the song "You." From the first notes, the warmth is gone and as soon as his voice joins we know we are in a desolate, lonely place. A broken heart is the theme, and we understand and feel the pain, not only in the lyrics and their delivery but in the instrumentation. "Cold Heart" shifts gears again. This upbeat number has a funky attitude that makes the listener want to get up and dance, or maybe strut, as Yamin delivers the matter-of-fact message.
Article comments
1 - ItsMine
You describe this album perfectly when you say that it's like inviting an old friend in to chat by the fire. For me it's like an old friend with a great new style because he does that on Know Better and Be Apart with an excellent production and yet still unmistakably Elliott vocal sound.
2 - Cathy
Elliott's voice is simply amazing. There is nothing like it. I've been playing these tracks over and over again all day!
3 - Catherine Smith
I could not describe this album any better than what you have! I just love this cd and have played it over an over again. I also think that Elliott's voice is simply amazing!!!! I feel that this album will surpass his last one and he will have record sales!!! Elliott deserves the best.
4 - Connie Phillips
ItsMine: I couldn't agree with you more. The songs are innovative, yet there is no mistaking them for anything but an Elliott Yamin song.
5 - Connie Phillips
Cathy: The songs certainly are infectious aren't they?
6 - Connie Phillips
Catherine: I have a feeling you're right about just how far this album will go. Sometimes a sophomore release can be tricky business, but Yamin hit a home run with this one.