Reviews
A few reviews of the latest YES! album:
"O'Brien is only 23 years old, and has already recorded two albums. Her catalog of local performances — both here and in Bloomington — is extensive. She's a true working musician, and the 'gigs' section of her site unpretentiously lists her performances at weddings and parties alongside those at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. She's educated, accomplished, and well-traveled. And her education, experiences, and unpretentiousness are all reflected in her music.
O'Brien has a rich, textured contralto, and her timing is impeccable. Her talent on the ukulele and piano is without question. She's charming; she's witty; and her infectious personality is all over her songs.
'Mouths are Moving' and 'Brown-Eyed Binoculars' exhibit clear talent and craftsmanship. O'Brien's vocals display impressive control, and I wouldn't be surprised to learn that she's Broadway influenced.
The YES albums also contains some real melodic beauty, especially when Erin Vukovich's gorgeous, stirring cello joins in. 'Red and Blue,' 'Not Aiming for Land,' and 'It Is Enough' all highlight O'Brien's poignant voice and lovely singer/songwriter sound."
-A review of the YES album by Smile Politely, Champaign-Urbana Magazine
"Whimsy is a rare characteristic in young artists, but O'Brien has it to spare. O'Brien, a Champaign/Urbana native, is a skillful singer with a great feel for memorable melodies and imagery. Her piano-based sound is augmented by her baritone ukulele, to excellent effect."
-Bruce Bergethon, host of "Acousticity" Program on WGLT 89.1
Other nice things that people have said over the years: