Elliott Yamin makes it official on his second solo album Fight for Love. He is one of the top talents uncovered by American Idol. Elliott Yamin's vocals define blue-eyed soul for the new millenium. Settle back for a smooth, soulful ride here. Songs and vocals are both stronger and more consistent than on his first album. It sounds like Elliott Yamin is here to stay.
Elliott Yamin Settles Into a Groove
The biggest story on Fight for Love is that Elliott Yamin has clearly found his groove as a recording artist. Song after song settles into a sweet, soulful groove without becoming dull or repetitive. His voice is now distinctive enough, a heartfelt croon with a slight melismatic edge, that it is easy to identify these songs as Elliott Yamin recordings. When working with superstar producers like Stargate on "You" the sound is Elliott Yamin with a touch of Stargate instead of the other way around.
Strong, Distinctive Songs
Elliott Yamin's debut album suffered at times from dull, lifeless songwriting. The songs here are solid and distinctive. "Don't Be Afraid" grabs a contemporary R&B groove while Elliott Yamin deftly entices an intended lover into a relationship. "Apart From Me" finds Yamin stretching vocally and verbally for answers in the midst of a breakup. Particularly touching is the self-penned "Someday" dedicated to Elliott Yamin's mother who passed away in March 2008. Enlivened by organ runs, the pain of loss is delivered in a fashion that is not only sad but also uplifting with the assurance of an ultimate reunion.
Top Tracks On 'Fight For Love'
- "You"
- "Can't Keep On Loving You"
- "Don' Be Afraid"
- "Apart From Me"
- "Someday"
No Sophomore Curse for Elliott Yamin
There is no sophomore curse on Elliott Yamin's Fight for Love. Instead, it is the sound of an artist maturing and finding a solid foundation. For those looking for pop with a soulful base respectful of the past while also being fully contemporary, Elliott Yamin is your singer. It is unclear here what may be the breakthrough single in the style of "Wait for You," but songs like "Can't Keep On Loving You" and "Don't Be Afraid" would fit perfectly into a pop radio playlist. Elliott Yamin deserves mention in the top ranks of past American Idol contestants.
Released May 2009 by Hickory Records
