Album Review – ‘Empty Rooms’ from Justin Clyde Williams

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The world was a much different place in May of 2019 when Justin Clyde Williams released his four song EP, “Preamble.” Appropriately titled, meaning – “a preliminary or preparatory statement, an introduction,” the rising singer/songwriter returns with his first full length album – “Empty Rooms” – after navigating a literal work stoppage of the live music industry due to the coronavirus.

However, the title track isn’t a pandemic anthem but a heartfelt ballad of the struggle many artists face on the road to becoming a household name. Playing anywhere and everywhere, paying their dues, and with the unique setup of this album – literally recorded in an empty room on one take, with a single microphone, guitar and fiddle accompaniment by Matt Parks – listeners can not only hear, but feel that journey.

This entire album is a raw, powerful, unfiltered trip from start to finish. Few artists are able to tackle some of the difficult topics addressed in a few of the early tracks like Williams while also displaying the range to incorporate a quality love song or two. Ultimately, the record wraps with ‘Good Times‘, a song about the passing of one partner in a relationship but also with an underlying theme for Williams entire debut album – “it takes bad times, to know good times.”

The world may have changed, but Justin Clyde Williams‘ raw, natural sound that debuted when “Preamble” set the stage over two years ago still rings true. Capturing a roller coaster of emotions sure to reach a wide audience for multiple different reasons, it’s a safe bet Williams’ days of playing any “empty rooms” are behind him.

TRACK LIST:

1 – Blood On Your Hands

2 – Boys From Broken Homes

3 – Kansas City

4 – Livin’ Hard

5 – Back Turned To You

6 – Empty Rooms

7 – Breach The Gates

8 – No Demise

9 – Good Times

Upcoming Tour Dates:

10/8 – Lion’s Den – Pinetop, AZ

10/9 – Lion’s Den – Pinetop, AZ

10/11 – Sam’s Town Point – Austin, TX
10/12 – Hwy Bar – Arlington, TX
10/13 – Ironhorse Saloon – Oologah, OK

10/14 – Bucks Bar and Grill – Venice, NE
10/15 – The Mission – Jefferson City, MO
10/15 – Gene’s Country Club – Pevely, MO
10/16 – Captains Sports Lounge – Lake Lotawana, MO

See more at JustinClydeWilliams.com