Reviews (page 5 of 13)
4/5 one that can grow on me over time
I like this opening - the tinny hollow drums are a standout. Vocal delivery is cool...different, doubled up vocals are very effective. This sounds like something I would hear in those 2000s TV shows/movies. Not bad at all. Ballad Of Big Nothing was decent, unexpectedly enjoyed it. Between the Bars is such a good song, LOVE IT, seems to be a very popular song now I know why lol. Picture of Me feels like British ska, unexpectedly really enjoyed it - there are so many movements in it they work so well. loving the production choices on No Name No. 5 - sounds very intentional and just works. I underestimated the lyrical potential halfway through - overall it's quite strong actually. Punch and Judy as a title?! I'm SOLD :). Say Yes is a great ending - hearing that it is one of the songs included in Good Will Hunting alongside Between the Bars (NO WONDER) makes sense. After some quick research on who Elliot Smith was it is clear in his music and writing how introspective he was such a loss but also such a talent. Fav song/s - Between the Bars (100%). This album was a good experience 7/10
Deilig og beroligende! Må høre bedre på teksten merker jeg. Fint å høre på. Veldig godt når jeg lowkey hadde migrene! Hørte gjennom hele greia 2 ganger på rad liksom
Solid Sadboy hour music. I would have jammed this in 2019. Also cool that it was in good will hunting, great hit movie.
Couldn’t imagine how listening to this would’ve felt walking home from bars in NYC at 5 AM in the winter after having a fun but disappointing night.
Has a bit of a Nick Cave vibe but for my generation of listeners. I’m not sure why I haven’t listened to Smith before. I’ve been aware of him. I like this. I’ll listen to more.
3.5, rounding up to a 4. Can definitely see how this influenced future acts. Some great some, but mostly pretty meandering, with some songs to discordant and lofi for my taste
oh yeah legit as fuck for the first of 2026. I’m a sucker for lo-fi
Elliott Smith, to me, is one of the best songwriters to emerge of the last 30-40 years. “Figure 8” and “XO” are his albums I know best, which are a little more mature production-wise, but a lot of the signature touches were present on “Either/Or”: the lo-fi/DIY aesthetic, the odd guitar tunings to give the instrument a new voice (“No Name No. 5” almost sounds like “The Rain Song”), the melancholy lyrics and sort vocals. I know some people would dismiss it as mopey singer/songwriter music, but already feeling the way I do about Elliott, and knowing the way he actively fought that label, I don’t have that issue. Not always “fun” music but always makes me want to keep listening.
Favorite Songs - Alameda, Ballad of Big Nothing, Between the Bars, Pictures of Me, No Name No. 5, Rose Parade, Angeles, Cupid's Trick, 2:45 AM, Say Yes
Pretty cool!
4/5 très bon
After the album finished a radio started and I noticed the influence this album or Elliott Smith has had on other artists.
Forgot to listen properly, but intrigued me enough to make me go back and put the effort in
sure, the lyrics are edgy and whiny as fuck. would that he had simply *not* written about women that didn’t want him. that aside, however, this is really good. The instrumentation is interesting and well-varied, and most critically, I don’t hate his voice like I hate Morrissey’s. I don’t compare the two because they have similar sonic profiles, but because they’re both insufferable little fuckboys I think I could handle in a brawl. And I am not a fighter.
Weirdly enough, Elliott Smith has never clicked for me. My first listen was after Frank Ocean interpolated “A Fond Farewell” on “Seigfried,” which maybe wasn’t the best introduction to him. And sometimes, it just takes the right setting for an album to make sense to me. I was driving through swirling snow as “Between the Bars” played and the album fell into place. I was entranced. I nearly sobbed and wrecked. The album is a rollercoaster with lots of sonic high highs and low lows. “Cupid’s Trick” stands out like a sore thumb but in a good way. Very thankful that this list gave me a newfound appreciation for this album.
I was hesitant to put this on while driving around last night. Ya see I have an aversion of melancholy music, like I’m afraid a sad song is going to turn me into a werewolf (or worse, make me s*d!) I tend to only seek out music that rejects “negative” emotions and depression, escapes the chaos and weight of the world. My first exposure to Elliott Smith was in Scott Whiddon’s “Taste and Tastemaking” class at Transy, where the primary text was a book about authenticity and why we like what we like — through unpacking their hatred of Celine Dion (spoiler: they end up crying at a Celine concert) To show contrast, the author employs Elliott Smith as the anti-Celine: a paragon on indie cred, authenticity, and good taste. But also tortured and deeply depressed. I wasn’t sure if I was going to give this one a shot. However, I really enjoyed this album. I turned it up loud so that I could try to really hear Elliott Smith’s words, which also made the acoustic low E notes resonate and the kick drums boom. Such a good range of gentle, stripped-down songs and full, potentially even upbeat ones. Great range of emotion and tone. It pushed me to face my tendency to avoid sad singer-songwriter tunes, and added more evidence as to why they’re necessary and worth listening to.
Bra bra bra
Enjoyable, but not particularly compelling.
Been in my rotation for decades, much love to Mr. Smith. Top Track: Say Yes
Fantastic album <3
Depressing but also soothing?
Quite a chill listen
I've heard Elliot Smith tracks here and there on the freeform/college-type stations that I tend to listen to, but haven't ever listened to an entire record of his. So I appreciated the nudge today. I really like his voice, and there's something about the instrumentation that I also like - kind of subtle but interesting at the same time. I don't know if I'll buy this record, but I liked all of it - so, 4/5.
Melancholic, emotional album. Sad album, interesting lyrics but very engaging
Warm and intimate. I don't listen to much acoustic, soft rock, or the like, as I find a lot of it sounds the same. This album showed me how much variety can come from nothing more than different chords and melodies. The singing was pretty, it felt like an invitation and I took the hand held out to me. The lyrics were similarly intimate. Delightful palate cleanser.
This was SOOOOO good (I am a big Elliott Smith fan tho). I think his songwriting is amazing and his vocals, while it does take some time to get used to, is amazing! It feels so personal. Actual rating...4.5 Liked Songs: "Alameda" , "Ballad of Big Nothing" , "Between the Bars" , "Pictures of Me" , "No Name No. 5" , "Punch and Judy" , "Angeles" , "Cupid's Trick" , "Say Yes"
Good. Sad. 4
Great songs, great vocals, decent production - i guess they are aiming for the Lo-Fi thing, but I would like to hear a better produced version - unfortunately that’s no longer possible.
Great lad
Really nice album for an early morning rain or late night regret. Honestly close to 5 stars, but the songs can kinda blend together and sometimes sound same-y, and the tempo kinda stays the same throughout. Strong collection of strong songs, though. Great vocals and guitar playing.
This has been one of my favorite albums since high school. It's got range as far as musical style, but not quite as much range as XO or Figure 8. I've cried and daydreamed to "Between the Bars" and "Say Yes" more than I care to admit.
Lovely, melancholy way to start a day
brilliant indie
I must have been 15 or 16 the first time I heard Elliott Smith. even back then, I knew he just understood it.
Portland in the 90s doesn't sound that bad! This is the gateway to my Elliott Smith rabbit hole. I wasn't the biggest fan at first, but once I started digging into the wikipedia and learning more of the personal history of this man, I became deeply intrigued. I never even heard of Heatmiser before, and I grew up an hour from Portland!
Хорошее инди. Песни немного однотипные, но слушать всё равно приятно. Лучшая песня: Speed Trials
melancholic but warm (4.5)
As someone who was born after the 90s drew to a close I had never heard of Elliot Smith. After a listen I can say that this album is a short and bittersweet exploration of melancholic emotion that seldom misses a beat. A wonderful little album that I with many songs that I will be enjoying again at a later date.
loved it!
Very close to a 5
I've tried to get into this guy many times before, but he never clicked with me. I really like a lot of these songs now though (after about 3 listens). Maybe I just needed to give him some more time. He writes great melodies, but I think it takes a while to get used to his somewhat whiny voice.
Another really great effort from Elliott Smith - though unlike the previous album we got, which was more "upbeat" rock-tinged stuff, this one was very dour folky singer-songwriter material. Regardless, his songwriting talents are on full display.
I liked Figure 8 a bit more with its more varied instrumentals but this is still a solid album. Elliott Smith’s signature soft and subtle songwriting is on full display. I really enjoyed the Ballad of Big Nothing and Between the Bars.
Já havia ouvido antes, mas nunca com atenção. Um clássico delicioso que, com certeza, ouvirei novamente.
Betre enn Elliot Smitt-plata?
Not necessarily my bag but I can absolutely appreciate the influence Smith had.
A good vintage sad. The highlights for me were rose parade and cupid's trick, where the sound swelled to a bigger catharsis.
It was wonderful, he has a lot of sadness, the songs didn't have very much difference between them but i liked it
Strong 4
Insanely depressing especially for a Friday. However, great album 4/5
Need to revisit this one. Good listen and would like to experience it more deeply.
Very depressing but it's misty out right now so it's kind of fitting the vibe. Really great stripped back sound and lyrics, well done album and cool vocals
Such a sad listen. Beautiful, but sad.
Wow!
It's not about you, you mathematical dick!
Powerful lyrics sang softly. Poetic.
85
This album is the color green.
Muy cool y catchy
I think i have reviewed Figure 8 from Elliott Smith in this list and it was my introduction to this artist.I remember rating it 4/5.Now to this one: Favourites: Between The Bars, Pictures Of Me, Rose Parade(haunting crystal clear guitar here), Punch And Judy(very dreamy and beautiful), Angeles(i think this one was either written for a Lars Von Trier movie or just featured in), Cupid's Trick(nice tensions,great guitars), 2:45(great lyics,too bad it progresses only at the end). To be honest the first 3 songs bored me but the rest was fire excerpt the last one.Great album again. 4/5
I like his music. It's pretty good
If you didn't go through an Elliott Smith phase are you even a real person?
Great record, but have to be in the right mood for it.
I’m sad now
Plaintive and distinctive, but just so soft without a hook
elliot smith is not my favorite in the folk canon but this definitely makes me want to jump off a building, so does its job
7.9 - Good mellow rock album. No bad songs. Not exactly my style but really good. Cupids Trick (8.6), Alameda (8.5), and Angeles (8.5) were my favorites. Punch and Judy & 2:45 Am (7) were the lowest rated.
Another one that takes me back to figuring out my musical tastes. A (quiet) banger of an album.
I had not heard of Elliott Smith before now. I enjoyed it a lot. Lo-Fi indie with breathy whispered vocals. It feels like the kind of thing you could build core memories to if you were at the right age to do so. There are a wide array of influences being displayed, but all brought together into a cohesive whole. It definitely warrants further playing, and I will investigate the rest of his discography. It feels like the kind of thing that grows on you.
Second listen. Although the stripped back nature of the album sometimes leads parts of it to blend together a bit, it also allows for the excellent songwriting to really shine through, and to great effect. Not a bad track on here, and plenty of great ones. Between The Bars in particular is probably one of my favorite songs, period, and the relatively cheerful tone of Say Yes makes it an impactful closer despite how understated it is. Fav. Track: Between The Bars Reaction: 🥰
Really loved this album in high school when I was driving around depressed. Now I am an adult and I take the metro depressed listening to this album and it still goes hard
ES was in my rotation a lot. He and Frank Turner can really stick the knife in and make you feel it. ES had a tragic end. Almost as bad as Daniel Johnston
Decent album. Kind of boring and monotonous, but solid.
Has a lofi, somewhat industrial sound. Makes me think of a lot of music from the late 90’s/early 00’s like Wilco, Sufjan Stevens, Jeff Buckley, etc. Think of the movie Garden State ha. Solid album. Vocals are sometimes hard to hear. Notable tracks include Speed Trials, Between the Bars, Rose Parade, Angeles, Cupid’s Trick, Say Yes.
I expected this album to come up when Nick Lowe was a selection a few weeks ago. The thought/question I have for myself about Elliott Smith and other musical artists with similar tragic backstories is whether they’re listenable because of enjoyment for the music or whether we’re trying to learn something from their art. The answer is probably both — listening and learning — which is probably why Smith has a lasting following. I think his music is just okay, though, but I’m intrigued to mine it for clues that might help me figure out my own shit.
A beautifully fragile record. Either/Or unfolds like a late-night confessional — hushed, melodic, and disarmingly honest. Even though this isn’t my usual lane, I found myself really drawn in by the songwriting and atmosphere. The little instrumental touches — especially the subtle organ moments — add warmth beneath the melancholy. It’s understated in all the right ways, and easy to see why it’s so revered. Listening takeaway: Sometimes restraint says more than grandeur.
Very melancholy, most of these are quite very simple, but I think any more instruments/production might have spoiled the feeling of some of the songs. Still quite a mix though, as the cupid's trick song is a great full rock song, in comparison to some of the quieter acoustic ones, which are also amazing. I think he's definitely the Nick Drake of the 90s, both musically and they both have really sad life stories. The songwriting is seemingly very honest, and I feel like that personal aspect makes it much more sad and real. Quite a lot of them are quite simple, but that's maybe what makes them good. Favourite songs: all but speed trials and pictures of me. Overall around 8/10 (also probably really close to 9)
Depressive, led to Good wil hunting soundtrack Speed trials Ballad of big nothing Rose parade
Really nice album, enjoy Elliott's music greatly
Excellent writing. Truly some gut wreching lines. It feels very intiment from the stripped back production and guitar. Clean and concise song selection, no real low points.
94/1001 Elliott Smith - Either Or Heard before? ❎ Revisit? ✅ For whatever reason, having loved XO and Figure 8 previously, I've actually gotten around to listening to this one. I love how sparse and intimate most of the tracks here sound. As you'd expect, the lyrics are interesting, sad and emotionally charged. Great stuff.
nostalgic, very 90s, My So-Called Life, Flannel, sadness, familiar but not known, Gen X coded
Obviously a classic. Really solid guitar playing and lyricism, it's definitely a landmark in the genre. I was pretty surprised by how heavily tracks like Cupid's Trick and Pictures Of Me lean into a more garage rock sound, but it was a nice change of pace. There's also tracks like Speed Trials and Ballad Of Big Nothing have some really cool insturmentals and are definitely standouts performance wise. Great album, definitely deserves the praise it gets.
69/1089 really chill, moody indie vibe that really feels like the precursor to Life Is Strange’s music choices which i love. I quite like this album and will probably return to it, but it’s missing a little *something* that i can’t pinpoint so… low 4 stars or 71/100 faves: Angeles, Between the Bars
First time hearing Elliot Smith. Nice melancholic album. Kinda like Tame Impala but way earlier. Definitely recommended.
Songs to kill yourself by. When it comes to tortured artists I prefer Nick Drake, but you can't deny the power of his music.
New-to-me artist. I can see this annoying me if I were in the right (wrong) mood, but tonight I am really, really loving it. Pictures of Me, Angeles, and Rose Parade added to Liked Songs.
Gran cantautor. Merece la pena escucharle.
Great album. Calm and reflective and interesting.
The quieter style of the album compared to a lot of the others on the list meant it took me a while to get into it, but listening again I really liked it. One for a quiet day, sitting and feeling your feelings. Fav song: 2:45AM Least fav: Cupid’s Trick
Got a very defined vibe. Bit sad for me but still thought it was a good album. Specific rating - 4.5 Fav song- speed trials Least fav- pictures of me
A few songs where I found his voice a bit too whiny but I really enjoyed it most of the time. Some gorgeous sad lyricism on this album- it doesn't surprise me at all that Phoebe Bridgers cited him as an influence. Three songs from this album are in Good Will Hunting, wonder if that means Elliott Smith knew about graph theory. Favourite song: Rose Parade Least: Cupid's Trick
Liked this far more than expected.
I can only handle the sad voice for so long, but I’m amazed by the songwriting and song compositions. I know he influenced a great deal of artists across many genres and I think that makes sense.
Ah Elliot, king of the sad boys, the ending point of the quest to find sadder and sadder music through adolescence. By far his best work in my opinion and the album that made him commercially successful soundtracking the film Goodwill Hunting. I think the album interestingly sounds really like a soundtrack all the way through and can resonate with someone having a hard day all the way through to someone deep in the depths of depression. I sometimes think this album and Elliot’s music as a whole can be over looked as an attempt to be as outlandishly miserable as possible. Whilst Elliot quite bluntly ideates suicide throughout the record lyrically, I think that sometimes stands in front of the fact he is quite clearly a melodic genius combining his use of folk guitar picking and wispy vocals in a sound that is if nothing else unmistakeable. A genius album in my eyes personal highlights being the obvious tracks in ‘Between the Bars’ and ‘Angeles’ 4 for me.
When I think of Elliott Smith (god forbid I do on a random wednesday) I will always think of either/or first, and how you’re immediately thrust into the aura of the record within the first track - a hallmark of any good album in my opinion. To me this is more of a 36 minute piece of music rather than a collection of hits, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing, rather highlighting the ease of flow when listening. It’s a simultaneously easy and tough listen at the same time, with the emotion of the lyrics meeting more upbeat melodies throughout the album. Almost feels quite Smiths inspired in that way, although to blindly throw it into that genre would be lazy given it’s a heavily stripped back, more raw, deeper cut embodiment of that idea. Do I feel I know or understand the meanings behind all the songs? No, I don’t to be honest, and I also don't feel you have to to gauge the feeling of it. It’s more just a guy writing about the day to day struggles going on within their story rather than being something that everyone can resonate with. The relatability comes in sense of feeling that the tone of the songs give you. I think that along with the quality of music is what makes this a record that is re-listenable all the way through, and for me that means it deserves the place it has within music. for me.
My knowledge and exposure to Elliott Smith is quite limited and I have to confess this is the first time I've actually sat down and listened to him. I've just known him as this deeply sad person who has a cult following by equally sad people. So to actually hear the eery voice of this semi god to some is quite surreal I guess. The first song that stood out to me was 'Between The Bars' where I think the lyrics are just so glaringly obvious about his troubles and I think it's the first time I experienced the impact of his vulnerability. His lyrics are full of regret but also they are realistic and not verly dramatic which I think is what makes them ok to like and to feel like you can maybe slightly relate without feeling like you're being too melodramatic. My favourite track on the album is 'Cupid's Trick', not really for the lyrics but for more for the musical composition. It is definitely on the harder side to the rest of the album but I do think it still holds the eery sound of Smith and so is not moving away from what he's about. Lyrically, to me it is just talking about heroin and how he doesn't want to give it up 'it's his lie' and he wants it to stay that way. 2:45 next was a stark contrast and I enjoyed that for the first time in the album you're hearing his voice on it's own, not layered, even though that does come later. It makes me think why for this track did he decide that and I guess to me it's stripping away everything else as it is just him and his guitar for the beginning which I really enjoyed, especially from the full sound of the track before. Overall, I did really enjoy this album even though I'm not sure enjoy is the right word but there you go. I think I was ready to be a bit meh to Elliott Smith and think that his fans are obsessed for a reason I don't really understand but I think I actually get it, and I will be listening to him again.
Really good. Chill af.
Really surprising. I've never heard of this musician before. The tracks on the album don't blow me away, but I like them. I'd be happy to listen to them again. 4/5
Good solid where it all started Reminds me MJ, Lenderman, and Magnolia
Another new artist for me. I liked this album, even though it was pretty mellow. I'd have to sit and really listen to the lyrics to see how much I really liked it.
Vraiment un bon album!
A little single-noted, but good for what it is. Something like Death Cab.
Good album for when you’re sad.
Another artist I had never heard of prior to this challenge delivering another rock solid album – should I even be surprised at this point? This is also the second album of my lifetime that I've had to rate for this and the first chronologically, with the LP releasing just five days after I was born. This might be the understatement of the year, but Either/Or is a very melancholic listen. Reading about Smith's death while working my way through the album only added to that sense of unrelenting sadness it carries. I'd say almost everything here is a worthwhile listen – the songs are highly effective. At the same time, it's hard to say I "enjoy" this album the same way as the others I've rated highly because it's not something I'm willingly going to put on (beyond the initial listen through) at this stage of my life. I don't desire to be brought down in the way Either/Or provides and (by the grace of God) I'm not having frequent enough depressive episodes for this album to be good mood music for me, even if only on occasion. That said, I'm going to break my own rules a bit. By almost every measure, Either/Or is a three star album for me – one that I appreciate musically, enjoy a few songs on and wouldn't mind listening to if it happened to come on, but that I'm unlikely to intentionally revisit. However, I'm going to give this album four stars because it's got the indisputable quality of a higher-tier album (even if it sounds VERY 90s) and is one that I ought to keep in my back pocket in case I'm ever in the right mood for it. R.I.P. Elliott Smith, gone way too soon. Highlights: Alameda, Ballad of Big Nothing, Between the Bars, Pictures of Me, Rose Parade, Say Yes
4.8
Very nice listen
Elliott Smith's "Either/Or" was my first full listen to his work. The album is well produced, with each song meticulously arranged and performed. It moves seamlessly between intimate, acoustic-driven tracks and moments of indie-style electric guitar. The music often feels understated, almost a quiet observation of the world rather than a loud statement. "Cupid's Trick" was the album's most powerful track for me. Its intensity stood out from the others. Other highlights included "Pictures of Me," "No Name No. 5," "Rose Parade," and "Punch and Judy." The song "Rose Parade" reminded me of The Dandy Warhols, a band I much admire. Overall, "Either/Or" is a very enjoyable listen. It's a strong album that earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Would I listen to the album again? Yes. Would I buy the album? No. 1- "Speed Trials" - 3/5 2- "Alameda" - 3/5 3- "Ballad of Big Nothing" - 3/5 4- "Between the Bars" - 3/5 5- "Pictures of Me" - 4/5 6- "No Name No. 5" - 3/5 7- "Rose Parade" - 4/5 8- "Punch and Judy" - 4/5 9- "Angeles" - 3/5 10- "Cupid's Trick" - 5/5 11- "2:45 AM" - 3/5 12- "Say Yes" - 4/5 Total - 42 Average - 3.50 92/1001
Could be repetitive at times, but I like his songwriting
I don't generally like acoustic singer-songwriter music as it tends to be a bit dull and soporific but you can't level that criticism at Elliott Smith. He's more interesting musically and lyrically than most and has a unique quality and sound that sets him apart.
I'm on a bit of a hot streak. I really enjoyed this album. Elliots voice is soft and melancholic which I liked. Speed Trials stood out to me.
Tortured soul
Most songs are good, some are great. Well crafted and executed, a pleasure to listen to.
Quite simply superb.
rigtig god
Really nice songs and the whole sound gives an intimate feeling
4.0
Great album
I am constantly reminded of my youth when listening to this album.
SICK
I don’t believe I’ve ever heard an Elliott Smith song, at least not one that I recognized as his. I did remember that he died tragically, either by his own hand or at the hands of his girlfriend. I really wasn’t in the singer/songwriter mood yesterday, but by track 3, Ballad of Big Nothing, I was in. Smith’s album is full of great harmonies & beautiful, though at times, dark lyrics. The music took me right back to the 1990s, for better or worse. Apparently, this album was a bit of a change from Smith’s previous 2 albums, with Either Or having more of a pop feel to it. Whatever Smith did, it worked. It’s a brilliant album. My fave tracks are Pictures of Me, No Name No. 5 and Cupid's Trick.
Elliot Smith is just really good, not much else to say.
7/10
Late 90s Indie Rock. Part of Good Will soundtrack. Soft and sad. Angsty.
"Angeles" & "Pictures of Me" stood out most to me on this very mellow collection of tunes. I can imagine having been really into him if I had found him in college, but I wasn't able to give it a close enough listen to really connect with anything. That said, I let it play off and on all day because it really creates its own world, which is a unique achievement.
In "Meet Me in the Bathroom," the oral history of early 00s rock music in New York, Tim Goldsworthy describes American indie music in the mid and late 90s as having completely lost its sexiness, and accuses it of being "sorry-I-have-a-penis" kind of indie rock. Is Elliott Smith the epitome of that or the antithesis? Delicate, vulnerable, almost decaying at its seams, and yet so fully embodied and beautiful that nearly every sexy artist of indie rock in the late 00s name-checks it as a main influence (Apple music's profile featuers Billie Eilish, Julien Baker, slowthai, Mac Miller, Arlo Parks, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus. Sheesh.) He's somehow the Prince of indie rock. I've heard him described as a master of chord progressions, and that strikes me as his superpower. All that intimacy has room to breathe because his guitar is such an extension of himself. There's a lot of Beatles here; "Cupid's Trick" feels like it could have landed somewhere on the White Album and "Say Yes" might as well be a cover song. But the layer of intimacy is what makes sets this apart as singular. I've listened to these simple songs hundreds of times and they've never failed to cast a spell. It's timeless and essential. If it hasn't worked its magic on you yet, stick with it, please. I have two and only two complaints: One, where "Pictures of Me" sits in the tracklist is very jarring and breaks the hypnosis. I may be unknowingly treading on sacred ground, but I wish it would have been left out. Two, "Say Yes" ends in a very unsatisfying place. It demands another song after. You can loop back to the beginning or go on to XO, but that's when I just want to sit in quiet and process Either/Or, I feel unsettled. If this is a 4½ star album, are those two complaints enough to round down instead of up? Tonight I'm feeling generous and want to add another 5 stars to its average. I'll justify it by listening to "Angeles" again.
Интересное ретро звучание в Speed Trials. Немного напоминает музыку 60-х, The Beach Boys, немного психодел. Слышно ламповое домашнее звучание. Alameda. Классная гитара в припеве. Снова психоделическая прогрессия. Between the bars. Очень приятная лирика. Пока нравится подход. Короткие 2-3-минутные треки. Pictures of you. Шикарный бас. Снова напоминает The beach boys.
Every song on this album is pretty good. This album has taught me there is a limit to what someone can do with just a guitar and a whispery voice. At a certain point, there just aren't enough interesting things going on. There's nothing wrong with it, there's also nothing great.
Another great Elliott Smith album. Production isn't as good as his later work but songs are great
Canta muy suavecito pero me agrada la guitarrita, agregué algunas
Beautiful guitar work and lyrics as expected. Some standout tracks but the style gets rather monotonous.
Another impressive (if depressive) album by Elliott Smith. As I said in my other review of his music, he seems to be channeling the spirit of Nick Drake into a modern context. As far as I can tell, "Either Or" seems to be Smith's breakthrough album, having had several tracks added to the "Good Will Hunting" soundtrack and clearly a much wider audience because of it. I really have nothing bad to say about this album, though I preferred "Figure 8". I'm thoroughly convinced that I shoud be spending more time listening to Elliott Smith in the future.
4 stars In some ways I always really connect with Elliott Smith’s music and in other ways I always feel a little put off by the lofi quality of his earlier stuff. Either/Or is a transition, with a lot of the lofi qualities still present but a bigger sound thanks to the presence of more drums and electric instruments in some songs. The emotion and songwriting is all there. But his music feels simultaneously relatable in the sadness and darkness that makes you want to curl up in a ball and also pushed away as an outsider to Elliott’s own experience. It’s these qualities that have nothing to do with how good the album is that has kept this from feeling like a 5 star album for me, and it’s never been something I have in rotation, despite liking it quite a bit.
I gotta give it a second listen but I really enjoyed this album and should listen to more Elliot Smith
The second one to come along in our queue that I've owned in physical form. It's great stuff, but I think he could have used one more uptempo song to give a break from the prevailing mood.
A really great combo of grunge and folk.
Really nice, accoustic, grunge adjacent liked it a lot.
Long term fan. Is it his best album? Maybe - it’s all good, very good. Strong 4 / 5
Like Nick Drake, because of the tragic end of life story, people also overestimate how sad Elliott Smith’s music is. It’s melancholic, sure, but it is hardly miserable. There’s a fine balance between introspection and a sunnier side to his music that makes it a compelling listen. He has such a unique and distinctive voice. In the 28 years since Either Or it has been often copied but never been bettered. It is not experimental, it doesn’t push boundaries, but it nails a specific grungy, singer songwriter approach that no other artist has quite managed to perfect. Combining delicate, intimate folk rock with angsty, sometimes bitter vocals is another tricky balance but he arrives at something universally enjoyable. It doesn’t come across as just “music for teens”, though it would be very good for that also.
High 4 could rise with more listens.
Расслабляет :) Красиво и легко
Really liked it.
Chill and relax
Wow, compared to the last Elliott Smith album, this is far more the style I think hes trying to create - some soft pop rock with super melancholic themes Maybe thats due to the double album vs 37 mins fatigue, but I like to think its how raw these recordings sound. Its true bedroom alt rock. I really enjoyed the deep cuts. Rose Parade has a really nice feel without it being complicated or all that unique
beautiful sadness
p817. 1997. 4 stars. Came cold to this and was pleasantly surprised. Sharp lyrics, and some lovely guitar playing. All that's missing are standout tunes. On the replay list.
A nice groove.
4.5 stars. Really liked this singer-songwriter indie rock. Nice singing voice, and popp-y enough at times to not be overly depressing.
Not my favourite Elliot Smith album. His guitar playing is still so good
found me at the right time i guess, very much into accoustic guitar atm and wow this man knew how to play the guitar. read up on his wikipedia and apparently playing around w guitar chords was one of his fav things about making music and well, you can tell! so many beautiful progressions!
Pretty good album, chilled and melodic for sure just as Spotify describes E.S. Straight away the album gave me Eels vibes, if they had gone for a more unplugged, acoustic, sound. Fave songs: Ballad of Big Nothing; Pictures of Me; Angeles; Cupid's Tricks; and 2:45 A.M.
God I love this sad bastard. I can only imagine what he was grappling with throughout his lifetime. This album is so intimate and raw and beautiful and I love it so much
i love this album i’ve always loved this album his voice is so unique and mmhmm and the guitar shivers my timbers and yum. i hadn’t fully appreciated rose parade before. no skips.
The second best thing to come out on the day I was born
4.5 stars
Didn't realise there was an elliott smith record in the list, but I'm very pleased that there is. A tortured soul who channeled his despair. Makes me sad, but sometimes that's welcome.
Broody but I like it
I feel that I’m not at all qualified to review this album. The first and only I’ve ever heard of Elliot Smith was from a guy I know who’s been obsessed with him. And so I was certainly intrigued when his name popped up yesterday. Anyways, I have to talk about the writing for a second—this is that Bob Dylan, Kurt Cobain shit that you know is poetic godsend but can’t muster the hundreds of hours deciphering what everything means. I can tell Smith put a lot of effort into his writing, and I apologize if/when I don’t understand. I’m just not smart enough. But for what I do know, the figurative telling of addiction on Between the Bars, trauma on No Name No. 5, loneliness on Rose Parade, etc. are all lended in a mature manner that proves Smith was too wise beyond his years. And if only he had more of them. But yeah, Smiths writing is for the poets and scholars, definitely not me. I can talk about the actual music, though. You truly get a bit of everything from this genre that Smith pioneered. The first few tracks and their solemn, acoustic feel placed me next to a campfire with the fire burning bright and the friends sharing stories. I began thinking about Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus and all those other singer songwriters with a similar vibe, and then it hit me; they were all created by Smith. Not literally of course, but Elliot Smith was able to popularize this new way of music that would be replicated for decades to come. So while it doesn’t sound so original now, any artists inspired by him could tell you he was game changer. He invented this sort of simple instrumentally yet dense lyrically style of music that so many adore. Of course he had his influences. You can definitely hear the Beatles in Alameda (the harmonies that kick in later in the song are beautiful), the acoustic sound of a Kurt Cobain outtake in Speed Trials, the Radiohead (Bends) on Cupids Trick. You can tell Smith is taking the best acoustic, slow vibes he can find from all these amazing artists of the time to create something both inspired and inspiring. I really enjoy Pictures of Me, a nice track in the middle to spice things up a bit throughout the slow, melancholy. It seems more playful and mood-shifting, yet with the same deep lyricism interweaved within. All together, I do wish to learn more about Elliot Smith and his wonderful passion for poeticizing the mundane. Maybe one day when I’m deep in my sorrows from a heartbreak, I can truly enjoy this record. But alas, today is not that day. Solid 9/10.
Perfect sad bastard music. I was delighted by some of the interesting chord progressions. I can't give it 5 stars because I need to be in a certain mood that I'm not often feeling to listen all the way through, but it is truly beautiful.
pretty good. my kind of mellow 4/5
I really enjoyed this all around. I don't think I did just as much as I thought I would but it's still a 4* might grow on future listens
Album muy muy guay. Super original y relajante. Es como ASMR con una acústica en drop de fondo. Poco variado tho pero me suda toda la polla. 8.3/10—>4/10
Este album ya lo escuché cuando descubrí la app, antes d q las personas d el grupo este la descubriesen (de nada) y recuerdo q me había encantado, es muy relajante y me recuerda un poco a Álex g pero si afinase
Beautifully composed
beautiful
Typically not a fan of hushed singer songwriters, this record breaks the mold. The lyrics are brutal, chord progression fantastic, mood depressing, production a perfect reflection of reality. Elliot is a legend in this space and influenced many musician friends I grew up with and almost anyone in the indie rock or grunge genre. It’s not an everyday listen but if you’re feeling sad, plug in.
Gothic. Moody. Gilmore Girls. Charmed. Addressing. When the socket's not a shock enough - wow. Running repeated. The path - reminds me of Lorde's The Path. Melancholic. Again, we are addressing another person - You walk down Alameda. Shuffling your deck of trick cards - witty. Solitude. A constant state of suspense. Is Smith talking about himself in the second person? - For one or two minutes she liked you. Nirvana influence? Inspiration for 2000s rock bands? If you're alone it must be / you that wants to be apart - INTERESTING. Said you can do what you / want to whenever you want to - Rebellion. The parade - foreshadowing the Rose Parade? The use of the second person is prevalent. Two parties. Escapism. People you've been before / that you don't want around anymore - Identity. Drink up baby - Alcoholism, Addiction? between the bars? Is there something coming in between them? Sibilance - sinister? the coin-op TV, frozen in fear. Nothing wrong - Big nothing. Everybody's dying / just to get the disease. Guitar break - words cannot do the pain justice? So sick and tired of all / these pictures of me - Identity crisis? Got bitten fingernails / and a head full of the past - excellent. Brooding. Drifting. A sweet, sweet smile - reminds of the candy in another song. 'cause everybody's gone at last - because of the disease? Several instances of negation. Got a broken heart and / your name on my cast. Raw, vulnerable, small, hopeless. Giving Weezer. Duracell bunny simile. Cavalcade? Throwing out candy metaphor again. What is the Rose parade? Loads of repetition. References to drinking and smoking. When they clean the street / I'll be the only shit that's left behind - negative self-image. They vs. I. I think I'm gonna make / the same mistake twice. We had a song about Alameda. Now, Smith is addressing Angeles: the city or a person? Gamble, trade, cards. And sign up with evil, Angeles? And be forever with my poison arms - disease, infectious. Has he found someone on his wavelength? Or is it the city? I'm absent and numb from shock / reference to shock. Sugar lie / Lick me up, it's my lie - as the music picks up. There are several references to candy. Candy is alluring, yet it is not good for one's health, addictive. Sugar, lick me up, it's my lie. I'm going out sleepwalking / Where mute memories start talking - subconscious. A naive, unsatisfiable baby - no saving, victimisation. With hidden cracks - reminiscent of the boardwalk earlier. But I'm gonna split us back in two - inability to connect. Memory. Looking for somebody's arms to / Wave away past harms - to heal his poison arms? Fade to black - hopelessness? Storytelling. Breakup. Ballad? A happy day and then you pay - Karma.
A few songs already in my regular rotation, really enjoyed listening to the album all together.
Intimate, and surprisingly melodic. Can't believe this was my first time hearing it.
He’s got a pretty distinct sound that seems to be emulated throughout the indie artists following him 10 years later. Sad story he's got, though.
83/100. Either/Or by Elliott Smith is a beautifully produced album. It’s one of the most emotional, haunting, and bittersweet records out there. Somehow, it feels both deeply depressing and strangely uplifting at the same time.
sad lad indie banger
Very, very good!
downloaded 4,6,7,8,11,12
This album really surprised me. Really strong songwriting and pleasant guitar work throughout.
Música muy tranquila y depresiva. Muy agradable para escuchar de fondo, nos ha gustado mucho. 3,7. Canción fav. Paula: Ballad of Big Nothing Canción fav. Claudia: Speed Trials
I liked everything on here, no real complaints, just not something that I think I’ll return to. I feel like I missed the boat on this one, or just wasn’t a depressed teen when I first listened to it.
I really enjoyed this. Like many our age, I first heard Elliott Smith in the Good Will Hunting soundtrack and I liked those songs but never dug deeper into his stuff. I really like the songwriting here, it gets stuck in my head and his melodies really do something for me. Overarching emotion on this record is melancholy. Highlights were Ballad of Big Nothing, Between the Bars, and Say Yes. Made me want to play acoustic guitar in a coffeeshop. A couple songs at the end didn't grab me as strongly, but I will be returning to this record for sure. Seems like a great late-fall, early-winter record. Strong 4/5.
I like this, mellow and very alternative. my jam.
I’m not a die hard Elliott Smith fan, but this just feels like an artist who came into his own so immediately that it’s a shame he left so soon. 4.5
Definitely sad boy music, but there's nothing wrong with that. This is a well-crafted album, and despite the sadness, it felt more hopeful than other albums of its ilk. That said, sadness just isn't what I'm looking for in music the vast majority of the time, so I can't quite say this album is for me. However, it's good at what it does, and I can't do anything but respect that.
Great listen. I can see why he’s the artist’s artist
Virkelig godt album, især hvis man ikke lige er så meget til larm. Stille musik - men ikke kedelig 8/10
Album was very good I very much enjoyed it 👍 Elliot Smith is my male role model
I have mixed feelings about Elliott Smith. In a vacuum, I'm honestly not really a fan of his voice; I don't really find it enjoyable to listen to. But I'll be damned if it's not perfect for his haunting sad vibes. And that style is really what makes the album. Meaning, if anyone else is singing here, I don't think album is as good, or as highly regarded as it actually is. He brings something that just can't really be replaced. And I think that really informs my opinion on this album as a whole. There's nothing else particularly special about it. But it is very, very good at what it does, which is put you in this melancholic mood while making you feel like you're sitting alone with your thoughts, Elliott, and his guitar. It's ultimately an album that I wish I liked more but have a hard time thinking of a way that it could be better. Favorite Song(s): Between the Bars, Say Yes
Elliott Smith has always been a bit of a blindspot for me. I first heard about him long after he'd passed away, and almost immediately saw the reverence - and sense of loss - his fans hold for him. It made the prospect of listening to him daunting. What if it didn't land for me, what if he didn't live up to those lofty expectations? Listening to Either/Or I'm pleased to find that Smith's music holds up incredibly well even without that personal connection. The song writing and musicianship is self evident and I was surprised by how catchy this was in places. I can certainly see why so many people have developed such a deep connection with Smith's music.
I feel that a lot of what I think about this album is more of the same for the previous Elliott Smith album I got (Figure Eight), so I keep this brief. I think Elliott makes some nice songs. He has a melancholy style that is too depressing and the tracks are catchy as they are emotional. It’s kinda sad I’ve never even heard of him before this project. Lord knows where he would have went as time went on. Favorite track: Pictures of Me Other hits: Ballad of Big Nothing, Between the Bars, Punch and Judy, Say Yes, 2:45 AM, No Name No. 5
Never heard anything by Elliott Smith before. Cool sounds and from what I got great lyrics. This is one I want to revisit and digest better down the road.
Punch and Judy was in the depths of my Spotify and I'm glad it's been resurrected. Elliott Smith has a special place in my heart.
A- Speed Trials 4 Alameda 5 Ballad of Big Nothing 4 Between the Bars 5 Pictures of Me 4 No Name No. 5 5 Rose Parade 3 Punch and Judy 4 Angeles 3 Cupids Trick 4 2:45 Am 3 Say Yes 4 A great album. Good intro to Elliott Smith. He builds off this incredibly well with XO and Figure 8
I was familiar with a few of the songs here. I like Smith's great, minimal, songwriting. Liked Songs Added: Ballad Of Big Nothing Between The Bars 2:45 a.m.
I had heard of Elliott Smith before but I hadn't really listened to his music before and I'm so glad I listened to this album. It has a calm and nostalgic vibe and that's exactly the kind of music I love listening to. It kinda reminds me of Alex G un some ways. And I'm definitely going to listen to this album more. The only thing I didn't like that much is that all of the songs in this album sound too similar, but I guess that is relaxing in a way.
Sad but classy.
I may cry to this album one day Come back to me in 2 years and it may be a 5
Pretty good album
I liked the rock-tinged songs best. However, the whispers voice gets grating after a while. If only 3.5 stars existed.
This felt like the music that would play in a movie when the main character is coming to terms with a new sad reality, carrying on with day to day life after a breakup or a death. Lyrics were interesting and well written. Overall it was good but felt a little too slow for me to really get into. 7/10
I almost gave this a 5. It doesn't quite reach the level of greatness I have reserved for 5s in the past, but I absolutely loved this album. Great for a Monday morning...
"Ballad of Big Nothing" sounds a LOT like a Phoebe Bridgers. I'm guessing she really likes Elliot. This is a great song. "Between the Bars" is a familiar song. It's all quite depressing, but it is really nice to listen to. It's obvious that Elliot was a strong influence on a lot of sad girls and sad boys in the 2010s and 2020s. I really enjoyed this album. Phoebe Bridgers is apparently quite open about Elliot being her favorite artist of all time, so it makes sense that they sound so similar. 8/10
Great.
Sweet, ethereal and melancholy. I really like this album. It reminded me of Beck, a lot. Another that will join the rotation.
now that i've listened and really enjoyed it to this i can officially call myself annoying without looking like a poser
Very unique vocal sound, and seems to change it up a bit from song to song. A bit of early indie/folk singer-songwriter style popular in the 2000s like Ben Folds. Very calming music, great for a rainy day. A bit on the "emo" side from a vibe-standpoint. Well done album, but no real "hits" on here. Great to have on in the background and vibe to.
Beautiful album that I hadn't heard before. I knew Elliot Smith had a wonderful voice but wondered if a full album of his breathy vocals and mellow guitar arrangements would be too much, but this was a great find with a consistent, interesting sound.
Very enjoyable
It’s like the Escher Demos - stripped down to the basics. A melody and a beat and a lyrical idea. I hope to discover what more there is of him.
Beautiful album. Not my fave from Elliott, though.
It’s a classic of its time. Bit moody and depressing in tone but there’s a complexity to the songs (form and structure) and he’s pretty accomplished on the ol’ guitar. Having gone back to this album (as part of this group) Between the Bars is still my fave (with Angeles a close second) which is a bit boring / predictable of me…
This was even better than I thought. Every song I heard his influence on someone.
Nicee
I actually really enjoyed this album. I had already heard some Elliott Smith before, and I knew that his music is similar to music I enjoy, but I’d never listened to a full album of his. And I’ve gotta say, I really liked it! This was a good album, with a bunch of nice, sadder songs. The music, and the instrumentals; amazing. Good work Elliott Smith, you put together a nice record.
WAY BETTER than i anticipated... Never gave this album a chance, now i love it. Tragic story...
How refreshing! An album by an artist I was unaware of that is really very good. I have played it 3 times already today and I will have to check out his other stuff. Shame he died so young and so tragically. This is the best album to come up in quite some time.
I had his album a long time ago but only recognize the hits. I like most songs, it reminds me of a time when I listened to Eels, Radiohead etc. Nostalgia.
enjoyed it a lot more than i did on my first listen
Elliot Smith might be the original sad indie dude. Inspiring countless generations of singer songwriters to tap into their emotional side. When I saw this album pop up I was a little hesitant to dig in- it was a bright sunny day and I didn't feel like going down the sad road. I found time later in the day and have to say it was much more well rounded than I anticipated. Could be the American Nick Drake of the 1990's. Yes it is tad sad, but sad isn't bad.
Great songs, great voice, great guitar. An earlier Elliot Smith offering, all the elements are in place, a wonderful gift, strong songs, one for the collection though I think figure 8 a stronger album.
The first time I ever listened to Either/Or, it was the summer of 2005. I was walking through downtown Vancouver with my head down, feeling a bit depressed on account of the music. Suddenly, just beside me, a car leaned on its horn. I looked up to see that a car had been pulling out of a parking space just as a cyclist was coming up the street, and the car had nearly sideswiped the cyclist. The cyclist was a tall guy with a Chicago Blackhawks jersey tied around his waist, and he turned his head and waved to acknowledge the car. I saw the man's face — it was John Cusack.
Great set of well composed songs by a great artist, will keep it on repeat, to absorb everything it has.
Either I'm a singer Or I'm a songwriter
Achingly beautiful
Average
Vulnerable. Feels like some minimal Jeff Buckley, if that makes sense. A surprising, pleasant find.
A poignant album given what happened to Elliott Smith and the melancholic nature of it feels sincere. Another one of those albums where downbeat songs can still hook you in if done right. A nice listen and another of those artists and albums I’d never have known about without this list.
Intimate, catchy, vulnerable, chilled, stripped back; are some words I have randomly used to rather generically describe this album as I can’t think of anything better to say. There are of course many other words in the world which others may use at their will (and in hindsight I would have). Anyway, that’s actually just a really cool album (and better than ‘Figure 8’ we had previously in here). Will be revisiting this one for sure, feels like a possible 5* grower.
9/10
The Beatles influence is apparent here in melodies and sensibilities in song structure. I’m impressed by what smith can pull off with so little. It feels intimate and yet big and bursting through the minimalist seams. Fav tracks were big nothing, pictures of me, and say yes.
Took a few listens, but I really enjoyed this album. I wish there were a bit more variety, but the acoustic textures were nice.
Amazing album. Sad and dark and fragile and beautiful
Could listen to this whispery man all day. Glad to have another album from him
It's a high 3. I think it's good, it's just not hitting with the current weather and mood. If I was to listen again in the autumn on a rainy day it might make it to a 5.
Very good! Pretty beatles-esque. Listened to it twice.
Very soft, I’d go back to it again. Seems deep and has a lot to offer
No matter how much you turn this album up it is still a whisper from a kid just trying to feel things. I suspect he was kind of adored to death after that Oscars performance, so this sweet document from right before is all the more precious.
I'd have liked to listen to my CD copy of Either/Or, but the drawer won't open on my player. Which has led me to wonder whether I should either part with my sizable collection of CDs, which I rarely listen to anymore, fix my CD player or buy a replacement on eBay. Anyway, this is a wonderful album of quietude, incense, candlelight and dark nights. Its mood and outlook — and indeed, Smith's tragic life story — feel decidedly Gen X. Smith was a real talent, gone too soon.
If Major Depressive Disorder were a music genre. This would be it. And, well, maybe that is Elliot's genre. A lot of great art comes from really troubled minds. A moody, meandering overcast vibe of an album with brief moments of cloud breaks of power pop. I struggle to make it through an entire Elliot Smith album the say way I struggle to make it through a Leonard Cohen album. It's great art. Just very heavy art. It weighs you down. Perhaps the sign of a great artist.
I think the mixing is a bit rough but the songwriting was gooood 3.5?
Not as self indulgent as some of his other albums, more vulnerable and raw
4.3 - I've always stayed away from elliott smith, but enjoyed the bits I've heard. I did enjoy this album, but it feels very contained in his style and so doesnt vary much. What he does well is great, but this album doesn't get to the depressing heights of say Damien Rice
soft vocals and acoustics, reminds me of early dashboard confessionals. I would call Elliott Smith the 90s pioneer of emo.
Good album. Will Recommend
Kaunis ja herkkä levy. Oli itse asiassa mulla jo aiemmin, ennen ryhmän perustamista tänne, mutta mielipide on muuttunut myötämielisemmäksi. 4/5
Pleasantly downbeat soft guitar.
I can't believe I've never listened to Elliott Smith! I can see how he inspired so many others. I'm into the soft-spoken voice and '90s vibe.
A man outside of time. There's some Beatles (without being Beatlesque), Big Star(ish), folky but definitely not folk. Well produced lo-fi. Not sure he deserved the top of the mountain critical praise he received before (and after) his premature passing. but the man could write a song and multitrack the vocals to bring it on home. For better or worse - their is a generation of boys with acoustics guitars and feelings that were set free by this album.
Apple Music sums it up well: bleak but beautiful.
This one really grew on me. Favorite track Rise Parade
Смит напомнил мне некоторых моих знакомых. Музыка очень интересная.
Awesome vibe
Top ten study album of all time????
8/10 I think this is the first ES I’ve heard. It was good. I see how this would be highly influential - heartfelt, simple songs that resonate. Musically quite basic indie folk singer songwriter stuff, so can’t hit the full 5 for me Loved the drums, really excellent Best: Pictures of Me
Un clásico maldito. Muerte prematura, suicidio (este declarado muerte en circunstancias extrañas), existencia (auto)torturada, adicciones, huida del estrellato (logrado a su pesar)... la historia no por conocida deja de tener éxito: Nick Drake es su perfecto ejemplo (con éxito solo póstumo). A Elliot le conocimos a partir de su inclusión en algunas de las mejores películas de los 90 (Mi Idaho Privado, con River Phoenix y sobre todo con El Indomable Will Hunting). Cuanto peor le iba en la vida, más éxito tenía, hasta que se acabó todo y comenzó la leyenda. Más o menos como Jeff Buckley (o Tim) pero con mayor producción (aunque Grace es superior en calidad e influencia), o Kurt Covain. Sorprende que por esas fechas las chicas fueron las que más cuerdas estaban: Bjork, PJ Harvey o Laurynn Hill. Este es su disco más reconocido, como XO o Figure 8, y contiene temas exquisitos como Rose Parade, Alameda, o las conocidas Between the bars, Angeles y Say Yes. En una época en la que los Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy y demás se dedicaban a quemar las emisoras es lógico que el bueno de Elliot no encajara ni quisiera saber nada del asunto. Al menos Sufjan Stevens sigue vivo-
suprisingly heartfelt and dark record. The stripped down quality and overall rawness of the album gave it a less is more appeal: the emphasis on what matters was great. Overall very suprised by this one, I liked it a lot. Favorite track: Ballad of big nothing. Overall score: 8.1/10
Siper
better than expected
Sad and haunting. But you know, in a good way.
Sad? check Pretty? Subjective Girl? No. Boy? Yes. Expectations? High Brief? Smile, Crossing? Your face Ok ill stop I wanna hear all of this in the car. i dont think the speaker gave it justice. Although i like the songs. Maybe a depressing that i add them to the liked songs. especially that i want to make a new list of the songs that i wanna hear again and probably removing the old songs that i used to listen to. The lyrics have their own weight. Almost teared up listening to Alameda I actually added Say yes to the liked songs.
Very comfy, and the voice is so smooth. I read the guy died at 34, so maybe that contributed to the popularity upswing as well.
Melancholy but beautiful. Folk mixed with 90s indie. I dig it. Sad story
Great dongs
Nice
🚶🏻
3.5 Stars - deserves additional listens
Overall a very sad album, especially Between the Bars, No Name No. 5, 2:45 AM, and Say Yes. I didn't know he had ties to Portland until listening to Rose Parade, so that was a cool connection to make, even if the song isn't really about the parade (it's about self-congratulatory events like the Oscars).
Was ok, a little bit down, prefer the upbeat tempo.
Great listen, songs full of sorrow…enough to depress anyone
Nice
A solid album with a few standout tracks, Either Or showcases Elliott Smith’s signature intimate songwriting and melancholy vibe. While the music is well-crafted, his soft, high-pitched vocals can wear on you after a while. Still, it’s an emotionally rich listen that highlights his talent, even if it’s not something I’d have on repeat.
8/10 I've been meaning to listen to this album in full for ever. The singles I already knew remain the high points; Between the Bars is as heartachingly beautiful as ever, the driving rhythm of Angeles makes for a compelling listen, and Say Yes is a fantastic closer. Of the songs I hadn't heard before, Alameda and the Ballad of Big Nothing stood out. A tricky album to score because the high points are so high, but I felt the quality lulled a little in the middle. Listens: 3
Fantastic album.
Elliott Smith was the precursor to all the confessional male singer-songwriter types of the late 90's and 00's. Think Bright Eyes, or Sufjan Stevens (in acoustic mode), and you get the idea. Smith, however, has a purity unlike any other, also his music is incredibly sad. Initially I didn't think much of his music anytime I came across it, but one day I listened to this very album more closely and really connected with it. Relevant to say, I was going through it at the time... Key tracks: Alameda Ballad of Big Nothing Between the Bars No Name No. 5
Debated on giving this a three or four because it’s a true 3.5 for me but I feel 3 is too low considering this album had some really good songs, and I don’t really like any other Elliott Smith too much so it was a surprise
I liked this album. I was really interested in the use of multi-tracked vocals, which aren’t super common in acoustic music like this. Favorite Track: Between the Bars
Love his voice and displays of vulnerability. STAND OUTS: Ballad Of Big Nothing Between The Bars - SO good Pictures Of Me Angeles Say Yes
Fantastic voice, fantastic album
Exceptional songwriter
some decent sounding stuff on here
I was being yelled out by Elon Musk. He was wearing old lady clothes that were all green. I tried to retort but couldn't breathe
OHHHHHHH oomf LOVES this album. she is that type of person who loves elliott, lana, leonard and all those depressive stuff. and now i know why she would call his music "the best soundtrack for self-loathing". 4/5.
Smith was a talented songwriter, though his style could be rather dark, yet at the same time a rather stripped back alternative/folk style. A good introduction to the artist setting the style that would follow him through his short career. 4/5
Elliott tried to join Houmous & Chutney back in ‘74. He just kept turning up everywhere. Studios, venues, even at Lens house. We kept having to say ‘Elliott! It’s Houmous & Chutney, not Houmous, Chutney & Smith! That sounds like a solicitors, not a groundbreaking musical duo’ 3.6
Decent
in turns bouncy and dark - more influenced by Big Star than some of his other albums. refreshingly concise - 37 minutes is an excellent length for an album if every song is as good as these are.
I really like Smith's brand of indie folk/rock and this one isn't a classic for nothing!
I’ve seen this album cover for years, but about six months ago, I finally listened to it, and all I could think was, why did I overlook this for so long? It’s great. The vocals are raw, personal, and stripped down, mostly dealing with loneliness, isolation, and personal struggles. While there are some electric guitars, the album is mostly driven by fingerpicked riffs, with lo-fi production that gives it an unpolished, intimate feel.
3.5 Stars - deserves multiple listens
Got to admit not aware of Elliott, other than he has the cover infront of the famous graffiti. Must have heard the songs on Goodwill hunting. It’s a delicate, sad sounding record, not really the thing for my commute to work today, but there are some nice melody there. Didn't know any background on that 1st listen, but obviously not party ground central. I like it and will listen again definitely but when more appropriate. Reading around since it now places context, good record, not 250 rolling stones all time good or whatever those muppets said - why does anyone give them any relevance, there is always the boost from the misfortune of a tragic story. 4 Star for the music outside any post hearing context
Never heard of this dude til now, Honestly goes pretty hard. Feels very modern.
This is actually excellent
good sad album
Devastating. Heart wrenching. Beautiful.
I've been hooked on the follow up to this album, XO, quite a bit recently, but I haven't given Either Or a full shot. It didn't blow me away like XO, but it's genuinely incredible still. Just kinda wish XO also got on the list but I'm not mad...
Speed Trials Ballad of Big Nothing Between the Bars Angeles Say Yes
Angeles No name no 5 Cupids trick Between the bars Punch and Judy. All bangers
Lovably low-fi and undoubtedly authentic, if not quite heartbreaking. One likes the vibe and mood, understated and restrained, but also sense some slightness. One was only half-in in all the hype back in the day, and feel only somewhat more invested now, pathos from his utlimate outcome notwithstanding. Really listenable, however, for all the delicacy and poignance. The sincere whisper vocal style never gets precious, which might be the record's saving gravce. A a few top-shelf songs: "Alameda," "Ballad of Big Nothing," "Pictures of Me," "Rose Parade" and "2:45 a.m."
Great modern era folk album. Need to dig more into the catalog.
this album brilliantly captured meloncholy and introspection and was huge for my teenage self. 3.5 rounded up
Listening to this, it was very clearly the progenitor for a bunch of mid-2000s sad-boy indie.
Decent album. It was very nice to listen to.