Elliott Yamin review
The Grade:
Elliot Yamin: A-
Recommendation:
The finest Idol release to date. If you are a fan of R&B or American Idol in general, pick it up now.
The Review:
If American Idol was based on which one of the contestants put out the best album, last season’s winner would have hands-down have been Elliot Yamin. I was highly anticipating how this album would turn out, but was very realistic that it would probably be a stinker like many of the American Idol’s contestants efforts.
Does anybody remember who Justin Guarini was? He finished second on the show in it’s inaugural season, yet when he released his album it crashed and burned… badly. Hopefully, this won’t be the fate for Elliot Yamin, because even though he finished third in America’s favorite talent competition, with this album he has crafted a better product than Taylor Hicks, Daughtry, and Katharine McPhee combined.
Let me quantify my previous statement by saying that I quite enjoy Katharine McPhee’s album, and I feel Daughtry’s album is serviceable for its pure entertainment value. Taylor Hick’s album is an absolute musical turd. With all that, Yamin’s effort is so solid that it makes the other contestent’s work feel like the musical equivalent of Silly Puddy.
Whether it be a funky dance song like his first single “Movin’ On” or ballad like the great “One Word” or something in the middle, everything goes right on this album. There isn’t a single certifiable dud on the entire album full of hit-worthy tracks.
The only downfall of this album is the clichéd sentimental song writing. But that is the type of music this is, so for what it is it’s great. Some songs have the ability to run together, but if those are the biggest flaws, then this thing is the landmark Idol album.
Elliot Yamin’s inspired debut might be strong enough to convert even the most ardent R&B fan. To say that an American Idol contestant put out a nearly flawless album, it is praise of the highest order. Even though I’ve heard this album enough to believe that’s the truth, it’s still hard to believe it is. If people give this album a chance, his exceptional, emotional, and soulful voice should be heard all spring long. That’s just fine and dandy with me.
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I agree with you 100%. The definitive American Idol debut. Elliott’s album will set the standard for AI debuts to come. Spectacular effort.
Ganns on March 22nd, 2007 10:08 pm
I have to agree with you that this album is really good. Bought it on itunes and had the added pleasure of listening to him sing “Whiter Shade of Pale”. Worth buying on itunes just for that track.
sandy on March 22nd, 2007 10:34 pm
Guess your musical taste is up your WAZOO!
Have not heard Elliot’s CD yet so I will reserve judgement on his until I do.
Daughtry’s CD is a dud!!! Sounds like every other third rate rock band and singer.
Taylor Hicks is the best. Upbeat and you can understand every word he sings. Has a great voice. His concerts are selling like hot cakes and he is getting HOT reviews everywhere he plays.
jeannie on March 23rd, 2007 2:28 pm
I also LOVE Elliott’s CD. His voice is amazing and his songs all touch me in some way. He pulls off several styles with aplomb. I like sentimental songs so that’s no problem for me.
Thanks for the great review. I agree with most of it, so you have excellent taste. (lol)
Laura on March 24th, 2007 5:29 am
I love Elliot’s CD. He is awesome and I love his voice. I would be interested in hearing him sing all different types of music. A great CD!
Cheryl on March 27th, 2007 10:58 am
The best thing about this CD is Elliot’s voice. I couldn’t wait for the CD to come out and now it’s a fixture in my car CD player. I love Pop and R&B music and I’ve seen some reviews that question the songs, but this is right up anyone’s ally that likes Pop and R&B music sung by someone who can actually sing.
The main thing IMHO about any singer is that they interpret the words written and feel what they sing. If it doesn’t sound believable, no one will believe and the CD will flop. I would say to anyone reading this, listen to the entire CD a few time. I promise you, you’ll be hooked. His voice really is phenominal.
Pete on March 28th, 2007 12:36 am
/agreed on amazing album
but IMO, daughtry livened up the modern rock/alternative scene a little bit with some high quality work
Love elliot, love daughtry, hope elliot’s album doesnt bomb, he deserves much better then that!
ben on March 29th, 2007 5:22 am
I loved Elliott on the show, but I never expected his cd to be any good…I don’t know why now! It’s awesome and I can’t stop listening to it.
I think I’d still rather see Taylor Hicks live, but Elliott’s voice is to die for and so is his new look
Em on April 2nd, 2007 9:31 pm
I agree with your review. Elliott is great. With a voice like his you gotta love him!
Jade3237 on April 3rd, 2007 10:08 am
can’t wait to see his album sold outside the US so I can grab one. I love his voice, and the previews that I’ve heard is great. Very lyrical, very meaningful…. very tasteful.
I-AM on April 26th, 2007 11:13 am
I have been a fan of Elliott’s since the beginning of AI 5. Bought his CD in March. I saw him on AI live this year in the final 3 results show where he performed his Wait For You. I was litterally speechless (Paula said these same words, but his performance had the very same effect on me, so I know why she said it) It was just so beautiful. It’s hard to describe what his rich, expressive vocals do to you. You could tell he was singing from the very depths of his soul. He loves what he’s doing, and it shows. And he sounded even better than his CD–how is that possible given that his CD is so great?! This is not usually the case. I’m going to see him live soon, and all I can say is I can’t wait!! Whoo hoo!! I’m looking forward to more from this wonderful man and very talented singer.
Melissa on May 27th, 2007 11:51 pm
I love Elliott…have since the beginning, but this album is just average. His vocals are top-notch, but the writing is pathetic. The only GREAT track is “Wait For You”, and “One Word” seems half decent. I hope with the success he’s seeing on this album, that he’ll be able to get some amazing songs for his next effort - he deserves a better batch of tracks.
Tricia on August 18th, 2007 8:04 am
elliott just keeps geting better and better looking forward to your visit to tn one word is phenomenal i love that song and you do it so well keep up the good work a devoted fan
rosamuller07 on September 5th, 2007 10:06 pm
elliott just keeps getting better and better i am looking forward to your visit to tn. one word is great. i love that song you do it so well . keep up the good work…a devoted fan.
rosamuller07 on September 5th, 2007 10:17 pm