Review of Crystal Yates album ‘The Other Side’

Crystal Yates released her new album The Other Side on May 20. This soul-infused Americana album showcases a powerhouse performer at her best.

 

Crystal Yates is a Florida-raised, now Texas-based singer and songwriter. With southern influences flowing through her veins, she combines Americana, soul and folk into one powerful sound. Yates’ husband and fellow musician joined her in the studio this past January. They then began working on her third album, The Other Side, with producer/drummer McKenzie Smith. With help from several other talented musicians, this record stands as a seamless and strong collaboration.

The Other Side begins on a powerful note with “Leave Me Alone To Die.” Haunting string work and weighted-down beats mark this track. Meanwhile, slightly tortured lyrics are presented in a surprisingly straightforward manner. The strength behind Yates’ performance is immediately apparent in this song.

“Already Yours” follows “Leave Me Alone to Die” on The Other Side. In this track, Yates turns in her jeans for an evening gown. Her technical vocal capabilities take center stage in this powerful and openhearted ballad. The straight-talking southern women comes back afterward in “Made To Last.” A casual love song, this upbeat tune feels grounded in real life experience.

 

 

Next, “Hell On My Soul,” is the lovely and sorrowful story of a women looking to find happiness. With a lot of soul and no sugarcoating, Yates addresses things people do to find temporary joy in tough times. Her powerhouse vocals drive this song, tugging on listener’s hearts.

Crystal Yates comes full circle

The Other Side concludes with the title track. Coming full circle, it feels as though “The Other Side” could feed right back into “Leave Me Alone To Die.” This makes for a satisfying ending, with heavy beats and soulful strings backing Yates' passionate performance.

Crystal Yates is a powerful performer with a high-impact voice. Additionally, the musicians on The Other Side all seemed to match her drive and technical ability. With a resulting strong and engrossing sound, listeners are left wanting more.

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