"It's unfortunately seldom that I purchase a CD that is completely satisfying and enjoyable from start to finish, but THIS album is one of those rare finds. Despite his young age, Elan boasts a rich voice that rings of a seasoned reggae master that's been around forever.
The title track, "Together as One" is soulful and melodic, with unique guitar accents that lend it a distinct flair. "I Wanna Yell" is a fantastic, inspirational anthem reminiscent of Bob Marley and the Wailers at their best. The tunes where Elan partners with other artists are high quality ("Girl" featuring Asassin, being the best of the collaborations) but it's Elan on his own where he shines the brightest. The raunchy, thumping "Feel My Pressure" showcases his diversity, and the Latin-esque 1st track "Nothing is Worth Losing You" is simply amazing.
Elan is a phenomenal talent and the first day I listened to this album I knew it would be amongst my favorites for a long time to come. The creations here are so welcoming, so genuine and so GOOD that with each play you feel like you're listening to a classic in the making."
Extraordinary
Big Kid | El Sobrante, CA | 09/06/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Elan's voice is golden, particularly in the first song, Nothing is Worth Losing You, and in the title track Together As One. The song Together As One instantly became my new favorite song. In my opinion, it is as good as any Bob Marley song in existence and that is saying A LOT!!! Extraordinary, Elan. Thank you."
I've been waiting so long for this release!
Zoey's Mom | DC | 06/28/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I saw Elan in concert when he collaborated with Khaled, KC Porter, Don Was, Walfredo Reyes, etc, last year. I was blown away and have been waiting for this album ever since. His raspy voice is completely captivating and absolutely pitch perfect. I wish the music was a little more raw and a little less "techno" in some places, but I'm amazed at the diversity of the album. Each song has such a different vibe that it plays almost like a compilation album. Only complaint - I wish that I'm In Love w/ You Girl and Slave to Love (f/Stefani) were included."
Breathtaking
Angus Brewer | Monson, Massachusetts United States | 10/10/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This young American from San Fransico spent three years, from age nineteen to twenty-two, as the Wailers' lead vocalist, despite not having any prior professional singing experience; one listen to his voice, and one can understand why. Elan often sounds as though Bob Marley came back to earth just to drop a few new tracks, particularly on the gorgeous song, "I Wanna Yell," a song he wrote after travelling the world and view economic injustices wherever he went. The album showcases his talents through songs that are dancehall, reggaeton-esque, and just plain reggae, and features guest singers Tami Chynn, Assasin, and Cutty Ranks.
A classic!"
Wow what a great CD
baf10 | 08/28/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I saw Elan opening for UB40 and I was very impressed. I recently bought his cd and I caanot get over how good it is. There is only one song that I do not think is great and that is feel my pressure. The rest of the album is fantastic. I am sure we will be seeing many more albums from Elan in the future."