I understand, misterrob. It's very tough for new artists without big label backing, like Elliott, to get access to top songwriting talent, and also talented backup singers, musicians, studio mixers, producers, etc.
Nevertheless, he's doing really good given the obstacles he's had to overcome.
Actually, he was a writer or co-writer on a lot of his songs which is where the problem resides. It is a very hard thing to do and a job best left to those with some experience.
I also think that he was rushed into the whole process and didn’t gain the benefit of paying his dues like Chris and Taylor did. Real hard to learn on the job like he has had to. There is a lot to be said for singing in front of 100 people in a smokey bar 3-4 nights a week wherever you can get a gig. It isn’t glamorous but it’s where someone needs to start.
(BTW, still kicking around your old job or did you migrate to something new?)