Reviews (page 6 of 13)
This was also very good. One of the best singer songwriter albums on the list so far.
Love Elliot Smith. Top tier sad guy music. Reminds me of college.
There are so many emotions in this record there are moments that feel filled with hope and joy sandwiched with songs of intense pain and struggle Favourite songs: Between the Bars and 2:45am Alameda lyric: “Nobody broke your heart you broke your own because you can’t finish what you start”
Really intriguing sound - feels simultaneously like it was recorded by many people, but also one entirely by themselves. Great desert vibes, or maybe more like the badlands in a sort of Stroszek way. Sad, but not mawkish, when it gets emotional - Nick Drake, filtered through Kyuss and gas stop cigarettes. Favourite tracks: Ballad of Big Nothing, No Name No.5, Punch and Judy, Cupids Trick, 2:45am
Amerikanischer Singer-Songwriter. Sehr jung gestorben
Very pleasant. Never really loved Elliot smith but this one hit. Kind of a mix between death cab and bright eyes
Beautiful album.
Really enjoyed this one. Feels like it has the potential to grow on me even more with repeated listens.
A really good album that I feel could have been better. The songs range from really catchy and fun, to almost awkward and unfinished. Everything feels about 30 seconds too short, which really hurts the songs that lean into more unconventional chord progressions that never end up resolving. But overall a nice unplugged listen that has a lot of good going on. Top tracks: Between The Bars, No Name No. 5, Angeles
Depression
Really good, not perfect, but really good.
Beautiful, intimate, touching. This soundtracks my life right now. Wish it wasn't so, but here we are. I'd still listen to it anyway
A very pleasant listen
It's a belting album that I've not listened to for a time. I can't listen and not think of Good Will Hunting, and thats a good thing.
Elliot Smith is the embodiment of a tortured artist. The music isn't really anything special, lots of the same soft guitar strumming covers this entire album. But he has a way with lyrics and every song is elevated because of it. Between the Bars is the best song here for me, but I also liked Alameda. It has a pretty cool riff.
This album made me feel things. Each of the songs is beautiful. Would listen to again consistently.
Great from start to finish Standout songs: Speed Trials Pictures of Me 245am Say Yes
7/10. It's a really mellow album. It's a depressing listen, but nevertheless, it is a really great album.
A little sleepy for me but better than I'd always anticipated. 3.5/5
Man, 4 stars is doing a lot of work in the scoring process, covering a range from better-than-good to almost-great to recognisably-great-but-not-my-thing. Anyway, somewhere in that territory are both Either Or and XO.
bangers prob more a 3.75 pretty good
enjoyed the first half much more loved ballad of big nothing, pictures of me, no name no. 5, and say yes
I had never heard of Elliot Smith, and after the first song on this album, I didn’t think I would care much for it. But as it went on, I found it really grew on me and I ended up liking it a lot. I will definitely will listen to this one again. Four stars.
вайбовенький, лёгкий, меланхоличный
An original. Ultimately, it always makes me a little sad. The music is sad and interesting and pretty. But an unhappy ending for a man that wrote love letters to Portland.
Interesting one. I think he'll join the list of artists I will sometimes listen to in the future. He sounds to me like a combination of several very different artists, both before and after him.
Rlly love his voice, some songs were mellow and soothing, others more intense.overall an amazing experience.
I love the melancholic atmosphere he created, really boosted by his vocals, which are definitely the best part of the album Some tracks are really good such as Speed Trials, Alameda and Angeles, but the bad songs are quite the drop off compared to the rest. Albeit there aren't many, they drag the rating from a possible 5 to a mid 4 Still a great listen, definitely deserves a revisit
нормалек, одну песню добавил. меланхолично... напомнило Джеффа Бакли...
People who are fans of Nick Drake - will love Elliott Smith......a grand album
Rip
eerie and venerable vocal performance and lyrics, a great listen fav tracks: speed trials, alameda, ballad of big nothing, say yes least fav tracks:No name no. 5
“Say yes” seems both out of place and right where it should be tonally when taken within context of this album.
Moody indie singer songwriter. Cohesive album.
first listen an earnest endeavor
This album is an important one for me. My cousin, Charlie, introduced me to Elliot Smith as he would play lots of his stuff on guitar. RIP to two great guitar players. I think this is an effective album. The gentle and almost plaintive guitar chords alongside Smith's double-tracked vocals create this subtle atmosphere of melancholy, even in the record's more explicit or dynamic songs. The thing that makes this album for me, though, is the synergy between the acoustic guitar and Smith's voice; they are so complimentary in their quotidian simplicity, and they both manage to evoke such a particular breed of somber. Fave tracks: Between the Bars/Angeles/Rose Parade Least fave: Alameda/Ballad of Big Nothing
Very easy goiing and complete. Altough there's a certain sad flowing trough. Ended up listening to all his music for the rest of the evening.
Nice stuff
Have struggled to get into Elliott Smith. But this album drew me in a few different times.
Will Hunting jams.
Angenehm zu hören. Entspannter Rock/Pop 4/5
Maybe a 3
sad boi
Beautiful songs with just enough variety. I could listen to Say Yes a thousands times and not tire of it.
mondays, am I right? han bis jetzt immer nur elliot smith glost wenn mir öpper s‘herzli broche hed, also hani bim erste durchlauf liechti flashbacks gha bim zweite mal lose hani denn aber gmerkt, dass mer sich das durchus au ohni heartbreak oder ohni das öpper gstorbe isch chan gäh... es hitted aber scho chli weniger so trotzdem 4 träne uf de heissi stei
it’s kinda crazy to me that i’ve never listened to a whole elliott smith album…i’ve picked up so many songs here and there but i managed to bypass him almost entirely as a teenager (which seems like a minor miracle). in fact his voice is most solidly associated with that one heartwrenching scene in the royal tenenbaums where “needle in the hay” plays in the background, to the point that hearing his non-heatmiser pushed-through-a-sieve vocals instantly transports me into that emotional space: anxious and hollow, overwhelmed with despair…i almost wish i didn’t have that association because it makes him really difficult to listen to outside of that context. blah. where was i…well it’s just sad and brilliant for the most part even the overplayed bits. fav tracks: speed trials; rose parade; angeles
Really really beautiful. It was so short though! I could’ve had more of this, which I never say. It’s definitely interesting to hear what is the inspiration for so much indie rock/folk from my lifetime, because it’s not a genre I typically like but I really like this version of it. Fav tracks: Speed Trials, Alameda, 2:45 AM
4/5
sweet and soothing, never listened to him before. what a knowledge gap!
I’ve listened to this album at least 3 times in my life and it’s never truly been as good as people make it out to be. I wish I understood what other people saw
Enjoyed this a lot. There's such a vibrant spectrum of feelings going on in this album, and I absolutely adore Smith's voice on all of this. It's at once intimate and small, while huge and cacophonous. A few new favourites on this, and I can only imagine coming to love this more over time. Best Track: Ballad of Big Nothing Worst Track: Alameda
Sad and beautiful. 4.5 stars.
Nice
I love the drums on this album. I think about the drums on Speed Trials all the time. I think about the shuffle in the drums and guitar part on Alameda all the time. Rose Parade makes me think of events in little towns where most everyone knows each other and I like that a lot. It rocks when the bass part comes in on the very whiny 2:45AM. I don't like Between the Bars (guitar part sounds nice though) or Say Yes and always skip them. When I was a teen I found a ton of Elliott Smith demos, live recordings, and guitar tabs on the internet from Either/Or as I was learning to play. Being able to grab a different version to try to figure out a part was very cool. Thank you Elliott Smith for doing a bunch of cool guitar stuff that was captivating for a teen. Thank you obsessive fans for an excellent learning experience. music: appreciated. (⌐■_■)
It takes a special kind of talent to be a sad folk 90s acoustic guitar guy and make multiple records that stand out and hold up.
Ik kende deze gast alleen van zijn 'Waltz 2 (XO)' die onlangs herondekte. Hier nog meer prettig kalme indiepop. Klinkt alsof hij dit lekker op z'n zolderkamertje bij elkaar heeft gemummeld, met een paar vrienden erbij. Fijn, ik mis de echte uitschieter, maar ook deze laat zich zonder problemen meermalen draaien.
I rather liked this album with its melancholy sound and vibe. He had a soothing voice.
I dont know if it was the rainy atmosphere or just being so close to Thanksgiving (aka fall city) but I loved this album. It was nice and slow Elliot Smith had a smooth and chill voice. Overall I really dug it.
yeah, ive already done this one. i need to loop back to R.E.M. and depeche mode this weekend. this is a great record, i just always have a hard time listening to elliott smith cause of how easily his music conjures my internal depressive qualities. if there’s any of his albums that draw parallels to nick drake’s music, it’s certainly this one. highlights include alameda, between the bars, pictures of me, rose parade, say yes
Good stuff, have always enjoyed Elliott Smith, so it was nice revisiting an album I have not listened to in forever. Well written songs, feel simple & somber.
Really enjoyed this. Somewhat mellow and very early 2000s, but it's also quite comforting to listen to. Reminded me a lot of Dinosaur Jr and Death Cab.
Vibey
Ugh. Elliott Smith. Unbelievable that he died of being stabbed twice in the chest. Like it feels bad to be so impressed at the overall effect of this information, considering the emotional tone of his work. I'm from Portland, OR, and folks often picture the weather as perpetually rainy, overcast, bleak, a hot spot for seasonal affective disorder. Whether it's all ironic or just perfectly poetic, the gestalt is powerful. Heavy. Beautifully sad.
soothing, calm and linear
Not really for me. Feels very "of it's time" lo fi, indi rock. Not really my thing. But if you where in the mood for it, this album is good.
Really loved it, such a chill album with some really beautiful songwriting. Will definitely revisit this. My faves were “Say Yes”, “Between the Bars” and “Pictures of Me”.
I really enjoyed this! Chill, introspective. I want to listen to this in Colorado, on a warm summer evening, while watching the mountains. Great songs: Between the Bars
This album was good. The music was good, with the lyrics going well. The lyrics had meaning that makes the song better. Overall I would recommend this album
have you ever heard the a song and wanted to hear it again thats how I felt about this album in between the bars is good because I like the voice of the singer because it sounds peaceful and the instruments just add to it making the music feel more peaceful I think this album is good and i would recommend listening to it
I don't know about you, but I like this album! Elliott Smith has a good range and I like the slow, yet upbeat music he writes. I like the guitar in the background. I love the acoustics in the song. I hope you get this album and enjoy it as much as I do! I highly recommend this album!
the songs seem soft. the lyrics are quiet and so are the instrumentals but it does work out great. I recommend this album to most people 6.9/10
Solid chill music
Soothing.
Perhaps the pinnacle of words-writing over song-writing.
4.5/5
Incredibly well put together album
Really enjoyed this one.
Another incredible entry from one of the most incredible singer songwriters
Great, took me back
Surprised I have not heard of this artist before. Found his voice and the beautifully sad feel of the tracks to be quite soothing. Will definitely be checking out other albums and listening to this one again.
Moody 90s indie. I enjoyed it. Teenage me would have loved it.
After a couple of listens, I've started to understand the sentiment encompassing the album. It's depressingly poetic but still gorgeous. The sonics on this were great combined with gloomy vocals from Elliott. A masterful inspective piece of art. Top 3 Fav: Alameda, Between the Bars, and Say Yes Top 3 Worst: no bad songs 4/5
4.0
I will definitely come back to this. It should probably be a 5, but I couldn’t relisten yesterday to confirm.
Muy bueno
mood
Really soothing and nice
Oh that was nice! I think I heard Alameda before, I liked that song. Good vibes and chill
Very enjoyable folk music with haunting vocals and everything played by Elliott himself. Already one of the better folk-related albums I’ve heard. Highlights: “Speed Trials”, “Alameda”, “Ballad of Big Nothing”, “No Name No. 5”, “Rose Parade” & “Cupid’s Trick”. 4 stars.
3.5
Elliott Smith - Either/OR (9.7) ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
I should have liked this even better than I do, but a solid album, even if I struggle to really remember the songs afterwards. 4 stars
Nice, easy, soothing, classic 90s listen. Everything feels quite pared down and intimate and Elliott’s whimpery, eggy vocals tend to blend in softly and superbly with the extra-delicate folk. There are light strains of Beatlesesque and S+G melodies and harmonies and also some spikes of spikey angsty angst rock to mix it up. So a by and large mellow record with a razors edge at times. Between The Bars easy standout quality wise early on and then a strong sequence of tracks towards the end. Either a mid 4 or a high 4.
Still hits as hard as when I cried to it in high school what can I say a certified hood classic
High fours, probably his high water mark. Gone way too soon.
I’d not heard Ellitott Smith before and while I still don’t get the hype, it’s not bad and definitely merits another listen or four
Great album, I’ve never listened to anything by Elliott smith before and I regret it. I really liked the ballad of big nothing and cupids trick
This album is very easy background listening. The lyrics fade out if you aren't paying attention, and the guitar fills that space. There's a few songs that really speak to me, and the lyrics can get dark at time, but I really enjoy this album. Worth getting the CD to play in the background of the house. Favs: Speed Trial, Between The Bars, Rose Parade. Maybe: Pictures of Me
I grew up not really listening to Elliott Smith and only really hearing of him from friends sometimes. I started to listen to him 2 summers ago though in 2022, after visiting Seattle and being told that I HAVE to listen. Glad they did, as I feel like his music really resonates with me. His voice is a little too soft and vulnerable for me to immediately like and that's probably why I never got into him when I was younger. I grew up loving big booming rock voices like Chris Cornell and Scott Weiland, but now that I'm older I actually love these more soft & breathy vocal styles. The production is right up my alley. It's got this rough-around-the-edges vibe, and is just clean and compressed enough that you can hear every instrument and voice, but they also aren't processed like some super pop factory track. It's a beautiful album.
I liked this. Very mellow, indie folk.
Really love Angeles and always have so slightly biased. I thought the album was a really nice listen with some good lyricism. Besides some of the guitar patterns not a lot stood out to me musically, but overall enjoyed the album despite not being anything special. Probably like 3.5/5, but I’ll round up for Angeles
This is the exact style of album I would have on repeat while I was in high school, in a complementary way. The softness of the overall sound blends incredibly with the acoustic instrementals, and it has a great mix of low and high energy tracks to keep you entertained. I love how personal and sincere this is. Favorites were Between the Bars, Rose Parade, Pictures of Me, and Say Yes
melanchonic, chill, would be good to listen in the rain
This feels like the album that I should rake through the mud for not being daring enough or lacking any distinctive features that could distinguish it from others of a similar genre However I found myself constantly being drawn to the slow pace of the guitar and vocals, making it seem effortlessly impressive and immediately enjoyable Would definitely listen again
Sounds like other Elliot Smith albums.
Very nice singer-songwriter stuff here. Solid lyrics, great background listen.
aw man i LOVE sad music 8/10
7/10
This one escaped me until today, and a fine album it is too. Carefully crafted, personal songs from the tragic Mr Smith, who promised much, but flew too near to the sun. His songs have a melodic simplicity, purity and honesty that recall the folk-pop classics of the 60's and 70's
Gus van Sant had a good taste to use songs for his movie Good will hunting.
First time listening to Elliott Smith, and I’m impressed but I think that it’s the sort of thing I’d have appreciated more if I’d listened to it at a more formative age. Also, and this is besides the point, I had to listen to it twice because I was listening to it on an Alexa, and my Dad found a way of connecting to it and blasting I’m In The Mood For Dancing instead
Incredibly solid. One of the best singer songwriters of his time. Melodies are a bit samey, but still a fantastic record
I like this one a lot more than 'Figure 8'. The music is mostly melancholy and the lyrics sad, but there are also songs which are very catchy and, if you discard the lyrics, don't sound sad at all. I remembered several melodies very well after the first listen (I listened twice)—this guy could very well be a hitmaker if he wanted, with the way he writes hooks. Nick Drake is still my go-to when it comes to this type of slower, stripped-down, melancholy music, but this guy is quickly becoming the close second. And I've only listened to two of his albums so far! 4 stars
very nice
Decent 8 Been spinning this record a lot this week and this was somehow my generated album for today. Funny coincidence. Anyways, Say Yes is such a good track and closer that it makes me wanna play the album again, just wanting for more.
Strong beginning, then it becomes boring (a bit worse beatles)
I liked this one a lot more than the other album by Elliott Smith (Figure 8) I listened to a wee while ago. Rating: 4
This is acoustic emo at its best, IMO so far.
Great relisten, always get enamored by his story every couple years
-I love his voice and the guitar combination… was a great album to listen to while wistfully lying in bed in the dark and making myself increasingly sad and angry -Favorites are Speed Trials, Alameda, Between The Bars, and Angeles
Ok depression I really liked this, very beautiful Favs: Say yes, between the bars, pictures of me, Angeles
Just as depressing as I thought I remembered. It’s great songwriting but unfortunately tainted with memories of a time when too many were taken by fucking heroin and too many more flirted with disaster. Great, but hard to hear again after so long.
Alameda. (SIGH)
Not bad.
I can see why this made the saddest albums list (but I really liked it!). Say Yes was my favorite track.
Decent tunes
Great Elliott Smith
Rated July 29th 2024 Nothing much to say. I just really like it.
In the last four albums I've gotten two Elliott Smith albums and a Cure album...I think this website is trying to get me to kill myself. This album is more like what I think of when I think of Elliott Smith, much more melancholy sound. Some of his song's have a throwback sound, like a 60s pop thing. This is like better REM. 2:45 a.m. is great, I've never heard it before. Then Say Yes, the album gets better as it goes on and closes really strong, maybe more pop as it went on?
This one hit me really well when I threw it on late at night. Sometimes this whisper-sing style isn't for me bit Smith is a master. The variation in style and masterful lyrics and playing make this a great artifact of the time and culture. I'll be back for more, missed out on him in life but, at certain times, this is the music I want to hear.
Sad boy sadness. There is a lot of depth to this album, strong composition of instruments with sparse riffs and thoughtful beats. The lyrics are of course melancholic and controlled, but not restrained. Some of these songs really strike a chord and speak to the emotions. Overall, this is a very strong, emotional piece that inspired some introspective acts to follow
It's kind of daunting to tackle such a seminal Indie Folk release - an album by a troubled artist that continues to resonate with so many. Elliott Smith stood as one of the (whisper) indie folk giants before his passing, ultimately influencing many artists to come (The likes of Sufjan's newer albums draw many parallels from Elliott's minimalistic style I feel). While it is undoubtedly melancholic, there is something so sour about the melodies and instrumentation here - they're not quite as comforting (to me) as I feel like they may be intended to be. They're very grainy, and not very vivid nor tactile but they still work damn near perfectly in creating this cold atmosphere Smith sets out to capture. Elliott's writing is really why I stick around here as he grapples with many issues. Many songs are inspired by a recently ended relationship as seen in the song 'Say Yes' but also the self-blaming of a song like 'Alameda'. The melancholic and dissonant masterpiece for me here is 'Ballad of Big Nothing' - a song about meaningless freedom sung over the most upbeat instrumentation here. The level of self-loathing sarcasm Elliott presents in this song is also subtly reflected throughout the majority of the tracklist here, like on the song 'Rose Parade' While I may not adore this thing as much as many people do after only a couple of listens, given the sheer amount of artists who have copied this style of writing and performing since 1997, 'Either/Or' works perfectly in standing its ground so many years later - still feeling wholly unique. It's an album so full of life, yet so empty at the same time.
changed my myspace profile song to "say yes" when Jen and I started dating.
I recall hearing about Elliot Smith and I see why this artist was recommended. It's a little more down tempo and chill than I normally go and that's fun. Smith's vocals really gel with the music, unlike some other albums on the list. What amazes me the most is how comfortable I feel listening to the album with zero prior knowledge. Some albums or artists require interpretation and research and context, and this is just good music. I'm sure that this music would benefit from interpretation and alla that, but it's very pleasant at a surface level. The music blended together after a while, and not in a good way like Sufjan. The whole album is a lot, but I think I'd listen to any individual track on a whim.
I think this is going to be like the Nick Drake album we got a while ago, by which I mean that it will get better the longer it gets to marinate.
I very much enjoyed this. For some reason it had passed me by first time around at it shouldn't have as it's right in my wheel house. Quiet and tuneful and introspective is a well trodden path but this does it well.
1996 happened when I was there but had largely retreated from life—for unfulfilling connection & romance. So I missed later Soundgarden & Elliot Smith. I’m not overwhelmed by Elliot Smith. Introspective with a whispery voice. May listen again, dunno. The only one’s the really rested on me was the Tom Waits. What does that say about me?
Neil Young and George Harrison vibes. This album has it musical theme which makes tracks blend together, I am not sure in this case if I like it or not. This album will take a few listens. Overall solid Stand out tracks: - Between the bars - No name no 5 - Rose parade - Angeles - 2:45am - Say yes
A quite-good indie album. I was “rounding up to 4” until the last three songs when I was tempted to round up to 5. Was it just my mood? In any case, don’t miss those… and enjoy. I’ll be returning to this one for sure.
Don't really know Elliott Smith, this seems like every romantic song in the late 90s in indie films, would happily listen again
I listened to this after hearing the Travis album 'The Man Who', and I was feeling jaded and cynical. But this album is everything that the Travis one isn't. It has edges. I really liked it. Favourite tracks: Cupid's Trick and Pictures of Me.
An almost perfect album, almost so melancholic it’s difficult to listen to.
Good mix of styles
Really lovely album, he had such a tender voice
Very nice introduction to an artist I’ve been aware of for a long time but never focused on individually. This album feels descended from Nick Drake and an uncle or cousin to Ben folds. I’m on board.
Really good album, I'll definitely be checking out more of his stuff.
Speed Trials // Ballad of Big Nothing // Angeles // 2:45am // 3.5-4/5
Rating: 4.3
Singer-songwriter, indie folk. Acoustic and mellow, just oozing sombre vibes. I really liked it, I can get lost in it. I understand why some friends adore this album, it's fantastic. 4/5
Lots of classic tracks on this one. Feels like a good balance of his beautiful folk guitars with more rhythm/arrangements. I prefer his self title but this one has a lot of great tracks too. Say Yes is great, ballad of big nothing, rose parade, between the bars. As pretty as it is devastating.
the first elliot smith song i listened to was “say yes” that closer for this album. hearing it in the context of the album fully enhances the experience. this is an extremely intimate album experience and i think it’s intentionally made that way. it seems like elliot’s vocals are mixed higher, so they’re right in your face when you listen. i adore it, we spend a half hour listening to elliot whisper his soul into us and it all ends with the morning after. one of the singer songwriter albums ever, and i wish he got the help he deserved.
Great album I discovered years ago and watching Good Will Hunting. Very chill
Nice chilled out album need to listen to again as I was in the gym. Not the right album for that but at the same time I didn't want to turn it off
I thought I was going to get tired of the slower minor key singing but the music carried so well with it. I had some specific thoughts about songs on here, so I should definitely start keeping per-song notes going forward if I've got them. I'll listen to this again some day for sure.
Sad boy
It's great. Pure folk music from the heart.
Ein softes Indie-Rock Album das von einer an das „schluzige“ angrenzenden Stimme geprägt ist - ohne deswegen schlecht zu sein. Die Texte sind tiefgründig und mit „Between The Bars“ und „Pictures of Me“ gibt es auch schöne Stücke. Das gut auf sich abgestimmte Album gibt dem Hörer die Chance in 36 Minuten tief zu entspannen.
Elliot Smith could've been a pop star, he just never wanted to be. There's a lot of power and subtlety in his writing that pulls you in and makes you feel what he's feeling. It's a good blend of his two main styles and again, is massively influential
I liked this, but I think spring was the wrong season to listen to this. To me, it sounds like it would be perfect to listen to in the fall. If I imagine it's fall when I'm listening then I like it more lol
Very nice
I really enjoyed this, but it's a very slow burn. Reminds me a lot of Olivia Tremor Control as he sounds like that singer and the slightly off tune sounding guitar is sort of their trademark. A highlight for me is Cupid's Trick. A 3.5 now, but rating 4 as I think it is a grower.
Detta ska bli mumma. Hört några låtar tidigare de är svinbra (hans "Needle in the hay är en solklar 5a - inte med på detta album dock)! Håll i hatten, nu kör vi! Är väldigt svag för denna typ av musik. Angeles har jag på min playlist sen evigheter. Det är en femma! Underbar låt. De flesta andra är mycket bra. Men oklart om det nåt hela vägen till fem. Känns som de bästa låtarna inte är med på denna och endast Angeles är top notch.
I really enjoyed this album. I’m surprised I didn’t know more about it considering it’s been out for so long.
"Do you like apples? Well, I gotta number. How do you like them apples?" I came to Elliott Smith like most people — through "Good Will Hunting." Anybody who tells you they were onto the guy before "Between the Bars," "Angeles" and "Say Yes" — as well as "Miss Misery" — soundtracked a defining movie for Gen Xers and millennials, well, they're probably lying. Can you imagine "Good Will Hunting" without these songs? They're as important to the movie as Robin Williams' soliloquy on that park bench. "Needle in the Hay" in "The Royal Tenenbaums" is, in my opinion, one of the best uses of original music in film ever realized. That it foreshadowed Mr. Misery's own mysterious death is, well, disturbing, but maybe not surprising.
Very good and simple album with mostly just guitar and singing. Quite short where all the songs are concise and there isn't any filler.
Tired Friday morning and it's finally started raining. Considering that, it's a very fitting album. Nothing much to do today and this is hardly motivating me haha, it's chill and 'melancholic' as spotify says. I think the lyrics are interesting but it's hard to make them out without reading them so uhhh does it count? Sounds like something my dad would have in the car
Say yes
Folksy
I was bracing myself for bummer town (my favorites of his are Between the Bars & Needle in the Hay) - but was pleasantly surprised by the energy of a lot of many songs - and reminded what a great song writer he was.
Pleasant surprise, will listen to more of him.
Wasn't sure how to feel about this album starting out, but it has grown on me. I dig it.
Inspired a generation. Great artist and great album.
Out of the gate, I'm getting some lo-fi Alex G shoegazey vibes. I get the sadboi aesthetic of the whole project and enjoy the atmosphere for the most part. There aren't a ton of songs that stick with me after a single play through. Cupids Trick is a more pop-forward song that works really well. I like the minorness of the progression that gives it an off-balance, almost grungy feel. Listened back through and while there isn't a ton that overtly stands out to me, I enjoy the overall vibe at work and feel like a lot of the songs are subtly interesting. Soft 4 or strong 3, depending on my mood.
This music feels so delicate if I listen to it wrong, it's going to break. The lyrics give weight to the music, so it's kind of top heavy. Didn't think I'd dig it, but it's pretty good.
I'll be honest, I've always sort of slept on Elliott Smith. Wait, no, that's not right. I meant to say Elliott Smith puts me to sleep. I'm kidding I'm kidding. Smith was a once in a lifetime songwriter who, in my opinion, never got the chance to achieve what would've been legendary status. If you as the listener are open to it, his music will transport you to a place you've always missed, but never been to. But if I'm not ready for that, I'm not receptive to Smith's music. In short, this album is pretty amazing, but I was in too good a mood this weekend to treat it the way it should be treated.
Yeah that's pretty good, a bit too Pixies-y at times but good 👍
Once again I knew the name and perhaps one or two songs but never listen to a whole album from him. This is a very good indie, lo-fi, guitar/voice album. All songs are carefuly carved, it feels like he's playing on the couch close to you. No fuss, nothing to fancy, but it works well. Sad and sometimes insanely beautiful.
I know Elliott Smoth from Good Will Hunting soundtrack and knew 2 of the songs on this album. It is a good album but all the songs have a very similar vibe and sound to them.
Had to give a couple of listens to really get it and, yeah, these sad songs sure are moving. What a talent, gone too soon. Maybe this album will provide others with the solace and catharsis Smith could not find for himself. RIP.
I've heard of Elliott Smith before as an influential singer-songwriter, and that talent is showcased on this album. This is an easy-listening indie folk album that doesn't stretch itself too thin, complete with Elliott's whispery singing over some nice acoustic melodies. There are standout tracks like "Ballad of Big Nothing", "Angeles" and "Cupid Trick", though some tracks in the middle of the album admittedly run together and sound similar. Still overall, a pleasant experience from start to finish.
I like Elliott Smith but had never listened to this album and assumed I would like it fine. But it was so much better than that. The songs were lovely and sad without being too angst-ridden, although it’s hard not to hear the absolute despair in the lyrics. And I hope you’re not waiting Waiting ‘round for me Cause I’m not going anywhere, obviously Got a broken heart and your name on my cast And everybody’s gone at last Everybody’s gone at last
Either Or really is an album that will soothe the soul. Everything about it just feels so relaxing from the simple guitar riffs that kick up only on specific tracks as well as Elliott's voice which almost sounds as if he's trying not to wake his parents up in the next room. The album also isn't too long so that is a plus. I really did like this album, it was so relaxing and it is sure to soothe anyone's soul Best Song: Cupid's Trick Worst Song: Ballad Of Big Nothing
Dreamy indie rock, quite pleasant indeed
It’s nice to hear how much this album still has staying power today 25 yrs later. Many artists today can take a page from Smith when it comes to making records with a minimalistic approach. The production here is interesting and many times uses empty space itself as an instrument. Even more impressive that Smith plays all instruments on it. Remains my favorite album by him.
I’ve got a soft spot for Elliott and this album has a few of his best songs on it. I wasn’t cool enough to know about Elliott before Good Will Hunting, but have long been a fan.
Have heard about 5 songs from the album, never listened in full. Favorite Songs: Rose Parade Speed Trials Ballad of Big Nothing 2:45 AM Say Yes
- Some of the most interesting indie singer/songwriter work I have encountered. Smith's whispered delivery is beautiful, hypnotizing, and haunting. - A few tracks do not engage me as much in the middle, so the album does suffer a slight dip, but the first four tracks and the final two are fantastic. - Loving "Alameda," "Between the Bars," "2:45 AM," and "Say Yes."
The sound that spawned so many twee soundtracks.
Gentle. Reflective. Enjoyable.
I enjoyed it, had a good vibe and sounded nice 8/10
Ugh it made me hate living more than usual
Great voice and melodies
I think I'd heard the name Elliott Smith before, didn't really take the time to learn more about him but I thought this was decent and would probably be more into it if I regularly listened to this sort of music.
A lo-fi master piece delivered in hushed tones by a tragic figure. Spider thin melodies belie the darkness within. Be careful as all is not as it seems. Best Tracks: Between The Bars; Pictures of Me; Say Yes
Extremely beautiful. Very sad, not always the vibe, but when it is, it hits. Love between the bars
Ég hafði aldrei heyrt um Elliot Smith en hef eflaust heyrt í honum í einhverjum bíómyndum án þess að fatta það. Hann er bara skrambi góður og vel áhlustanlegur. Ég mun eflaust setja þessa plötu á fóninn aftur.
7/10 Elliot Smith is my kind of music. I like this whole album but couldn't name you one track that stands out 3-14-2024
There isn’t anything in current Indie music that wasn’t already present in Elliott Smith’s music—the whispered vocal melodies, the foundation of acoustic guitar, the stripped-down arrangements, the gathering darkness, the promise that will never be fully realized. Maybe “Ballad of Big Nothing” says it all: “You can do what you want to/There’s nothing to stop you.” If only that was still true for Smith, but we can live present tense in his legacy.
This is a really good album. sweet and emotional vocals and instrumentation, with catchy and heartfelt songs. could've been a bit longer, and had 1 or 2 slightly forgetable tracks, nearly a perfect album, but doesn't have that extra specialty to push it over the edge when compared to albums like TPAB, MBDTF or Dark Side Of the Moon
Love. I want to curl up in his voice and take a nap.
Quite nice album. Reminds me of Sufjan Stevens.
New one for me. Not as sad or tragic as his reputaion would have you believe.
I listened to this about two years ago and liked some songs, but was mostly bored 😕 Going to give it another try... Reading the lyrics while listening definitely improves the experience. Just pure poetry... Gets a bit repetitive but solid overall.
Cool
Not really my style -- a little whiny, but cool melodies and nice sparse arrangements.
Folky guitar and some good lyrics, but nothing truely great. This album may never change the world, but it might just change your day.
Clever wordplay. Catchy vocal melodies, many of which have been rolling around in my head for years.
Haunting and beautiful
Haunting tone to his voice. Can almost really like it.
Loved his production and good melodies
Despite never hearing of this dude, this album sounds familiar in a good way. Quite a few bangers. Looking forward to more listens as I feel it may move up.
nice mix of songs
Good album.
Pretty good!
Good songwriter, good music.
It's Elliott Smith
A- 5/5 I enjoyed it D- 3/5 nothing spectacular. Good tho
Another solid showing from Eliot Smith.
Weezer se fosse bom Fav tracks: Alameda, Ballad Of Big Nothing, Between The Bars, Pictures Of Me, Rose Parade, Angeles, Say Yes Least fav track: Speed Trials
Non-grunge 90's alternative; not too heavy, not too light. Really solid, talented singer/song-writer. A nice album to put on an listen to start to finish.
Very interesting 90s Indie - I really liked it, but it got a bit repetitive toward the end, especially because it is such a long album.
Good songwriting. Could have been early foo fighters if they went easy listening.
Recently, I had the pleasure of listening to the first recordings Elliot Smith recorded back in high school with the band, Stranger than Fiction. What was revealed it that even at an early age Smith was a self-aware musician, singer-songwriter that matured with each recording that eventually led to his work with Heatmiser. By the time he released his first solo album in 1994, he was already a seasoned performer and his growth of a songwriter was obvious and is highlighted on Either Or, Smith's third album. The feeling at the time was that Smith could be "popular", but he didn't want to be. A solidly consistant record that didn't need "hits" or heavy production to get the message across. I enjoy most of Smith's albums for different reasons and Either Or, rightfully should be considered one of his finest.
Really love this album, reminds me of being a heartbroken teenager driving around town
Melancholic Radiohead / badly drawn boy influence Enjoyed
Good for a mellow listen
90's emo. Even though this was time period, and seems like it is popular, don't remember ever listening to this before.
Solid. To listen again
4.5/5
Have to admit ... this one really grew one me. Felt indifferent about it at the beginning but by the end was very captivated by the melancholic nature of the lyrics and the structure of the songs. Worth a re-listen.
I hadn't heard Elliott Smith in a very long time, thanks for jogging my memory. This is powerful music, worth revisiting.
Nice pop album. Soft and humble vocals and acoustic guitar.
Beautiful, haunting sadness.
Enjoyable. I didn't really know this artist, but the music seemed familiar. Then realised some of it featured on the Good Will Hunting soundtrack - that's it!
Will revisit
I’ve have between the bars on my repeat playlist and was looking forward to listening to this album. I think I like it, might need to listen to it over time for it to grow on me. But I love his musical style and wish other songs had hit me the way between the bars did. Maybe it will take awhile.
Hauntingly beautiful. Not a fan of it reminding me when I was a depressed 14 year old (lmao compared to currently a depressed 38 year old).
It's ridiculous how obvious of an influence this album was on a generation of songwriters. Being able to connect Either/Or's legacy by threads of current indie rock is a treat of it's own. Smith tells personal stories of sadness, addiction and loss by blending metaphors and direct connections of the places Portland had to offer him ("Alameda", "Rose Parade", a line on "Punch and Judy" about driving around Division street). A balanced mix of songwriter with acoustic guitar ("Between the Bars", "No Name No. 5", "Angeles") and punchy indie rock indicative of the 90's ("Pictures of Me", "Cupid's Trick"). Final track "Say Yes" is a sweet, if not overly optimistic reminder, that there is always something to hope and strive for even after events of resounding sadness because throughout it all we'll still "be around the morning after."
Lekkere nummers, gewoon goed
Feines Album, ruhig, aber nicht fad
Speed Trials: I have no idea what's going on but I like it. I really like his singing style. Alameda: I like this one. damn sad though. serious sad Ballad of Big Nothing: what a title Already. it's good too Between the Bars: I'm still not sure who he's singing to. sad but lowkey kind of romantic. Pictures of Me: I'm not sure about this one. I get it but also shut up. you know. No Name number 5: your name on my cast (*side eye*) this might cross into too much sad boi Rose Parade: This might my favorite so far altough I'm still not in love Punch and Judy: I gotta say the production on the whole thing has been really good and consistent too. Angeles: I think I might be too tired to understand this one Cupid's Trick: whut... 2:45 AM: okay nice ending I guess.
Pretty good little album. I think I prefer it over the last Elliott Smith I had about two weeks ago.. the songs just seemed to make more of an impression on the first listen. On the second listen I think it grew on me with recognizing the melodies a little more. 7/10
Really feels like a bridge from the 90’s Britpop-influenced indie music to the modern indie sound. Not what I was expecting Elliott Smith to sound like, a very bright and full sound with generally powerful vocals. A few misses for me on the record, but I loved the songs I liked off it. Top tracks: Speed Trials, Alameda, Ballad Of Big Nothing, Rose Parade, Cupids Trick
Enjoyed it but wasnt head over heels, perhaps i wasnt in the sad girl headspace that i need to be in to enjoy
I liked it more than I thought. Gets better on repeated listens. I can tell a lot of modern bands were inspired by it, but the style doesn’t connect with me. Like I can tell it’s supposed to be sad, but doesn’t make me sad. Something is missing but I’m not sure what it’d need to bump up to a 5
-i Have heard of elliott smith -but i have never heard this album specifically -this is very indie sad boy music which i do like -i like how soft and nice this is -his voice is distince but very soft -these songs feel very sweet and relaxing -90’s indie is truly the best and this is a good example of it -overall i actually really enjoyed this album! -i had heard say yes before and its probably my favorite on the album -easy solid four stars
This is Smith's third album, and contains some of his most famous songs. A few of these songs were in the film "Good Will Hunting," including the original "Miss Misery." That song received an Oscar nomination, and led to Smith's first few televised appearances. The success of the film propelled Smith's career. Smith's songs, with complex orchestrations and earnest, compelling lyrics worked well with the film's themes.
Good stuff
Well, ain't this purty? The style of playing and singing fewls like its been copied countless times, to the point where as the album went on it was starting to feel a tad derivative, despite it being the origin point, and that did start to sour the album, even though it's quite short, but that doesn't stop that there are some really pretty chord progressions here, and the more stripped down nature reminds me of Nick Drake, but 90s-ified. Just something that's really chill and relaxed, while still having this uneasiness to me, like something else is wrong and you don't know what, and I really enioy those types of albums. Am I rambling? I'm rambling.
Vind deze heel lauw.
Would definitely want to listen again.
hit and miss, not too bad. 3.5
Oh man, I can smell damp shoes and wet hoodies. Portlanders don't wear raincoats or carry umbrellas! Perma wet cotton is where it is at for months on end. And dark. No sun. And this music reflects this. Like a quiet walk home after a house party, with a light drizzle. Just enough rain to make your glasses speckled but not enough to get you truly wet. I'm a bit surprised I hadn't listen to any Elliott Smith, really, till now.
Sad vibe but I'm here for it. Less moody more verge of angst, but somewhere between the two. "Between the Bars" - this song has been haunting me for years!!!! Very Deathcab for Cutie - Could see Seth Cohen really enjoying this.
I was reminded how much I enjoy Elliot Smith. I will be revisiting this. It was great.
If I had had a bedroom pop phase – I never did – but if I had – i don't know why I never had one – does discovering Radiohead count? – but if I had – and I could have had – and if I had heard Either/Or at the same time, I would have loved it. As it is, I like it, but the possibility for me to truly love it has already passed.
It wasn't anything exciting, but it was good. I can see why it was critically acclaimed; the writing is good. It didn't blow me away, but I appreciated it.
It wasn't anything exciting, but it was good. I can see why it was critically acclaimed; the writing is good. It didn't blow me away, but I appreciated it.
Quite good, if not as good as Figure 8, but definitely more typical of his sound.
A nice gentle album. It reminds me of Sufjan Stevens.
Excellent collection from a guy who left way too soon. Between the Bars is a standout on this album-also really liked No Name No. 5 and Rose Parade.
Beautiful Melodies little replyabaility bar angeles and between the bars 3.6/5
It's no surprise that Elliott Smith wrote and performed some of the most gorgeous music in his lifetime. Either / Or is a standout demonstration of his work as a singer-songwriter.
Very calming and chill. It's kind of like Bon Iver meets the Beatles.
Actually very solid even though it's folky
This is a classic, though I am biased and already a fan of Elliott Smith. Elliott and the quiet dynamics of his songwriting are on full display here. Overall, a moody and depressing (to me) feeling album. "Say Yes" is still one of my favorite songs and it brings me back to my freshman year of college every single time.
nice, mjuk
Really liked - anxty!!
Great lyrics. Super relatable to me.
Between the bars and say yes are fantastic songs.
Dit vind ik wel lekker. Meanderende, semi-acoustische zingliedjes van een persoon die de pech had dat 113 nog niet bestond. Af en toe doet het denken aan een soort unplugged variant van AFI (met name "Between the Bars"). Best eigenzinnig zonder dat het geforceerd CKV-erig overkomt. Het is niet dat ik hier de komende week nog van ga nagenieten, maar dit soort albums vind ik niet erg om te krijgen. Een 3,5 was perfect geweest.
pretty good overall, though a lot of the songs sound really similar. i ended up listening through the album four times just to try to differentiate between the songs and pick up on things i'd missed. great lyrics, moody guitar, and hushed vocals come together to make a solid album. i can see how this would have a huge impact on people who discovered it at the right time in their lives. i didn't have any knowledge of or nostalgia for elliott smith prior to yesterday but still enjoyed it. favorites: speed trials, Alameda, ballad of big nothing, between the bars, rose parade, angeles, say yes
Probably will grow on me with more listens but I preferred Figure 8 just after the first listen. Very good album no doubt, loved the singles, and the rest was enjoyable but didn't grab me right away. Still very solid.
Sad boi folky music
Good album. Brings back memories of Good Will Hunting.
So glad I got to rediscover this album & remembering my heartache teenage years. Very poetic, very heartfelt.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the vocals at first but then grew on me as I listened through the album. A lot of the songwriting was good and a little bit of it was great! I really liked the guitar and the bits where the intensity picked up. Overall, I liked this album.
Fun fact: I first discovered Elliott Smith through Rick and Morty. Go figure. Album #2. Despite how head over heels I was for Smith's music in ninth grade, I can't recall a time when I actually listened to one of his albums all the way through. So here we are! A definite all-timer, even if I think his later work carries the greater emotional punch with more interesting instrumentation to boot. (This opinion comes from not looking up the lyrics to this album, which I will continue my abstinence from. I can't be crushed today.) My preference for the more experimental portion of Smith's discography admittedly probably comes from the way I've traditionally discovered artists in high school: mixed in with playlists instead of through individual albums. So it makes sense why this collection doesn't have as tight of a grasp on my heart-- it really is reflective music to lose yourself in quiet, still rooms. I believe this album will find me then, and I'll ponder its true power. Until then...
Have already listened to
Not typically my "type" of music but really enjoyed that. obviously a lot of passion and warm fuzzy feeling music. 4
Elliott Smith manages to make a unique sound. Overall it's a somewhat quiet album, but enjoyable.
Heartfelt, meaningful. A couple really excellent songs.
Ganske mange rolige bængers
Nice singer songwriter
So lo fi but so tender and sweet
Good
This is a strong indie album, that predated that Sean Lennon sound. Standouts lie in Speed Trials, Alameda, Between The Bars, and Ballad Of Big Nothing.
I wish it wasn’t so whispery but I really liked all the songs. Favs were Alameda, Ballad of Big Nothing, and No Name No. 5.
It was alright. 90s alternative
Could there be a Phoebe Bridgers without an Elliott Smith? One of the most notable in that subcategory of indie artists who sing depressing lyrics quietly, Smith is also one of the best. His heartbreakingly honest lyrics sometimes overshadow his melodies, but even those are fairly strong in their simplicity. Songs like "Between the Bars", "Say Yes" and "Angeles" are among his best and most hummable.
Good tunes! Liked hearing a couple of Portland references in there!
I like this one, only heard a few of his songs before. Some moody vibes, nice and chilled.
Pretty good
I quite enjoyed this.
- really enjoy this - great vibes
Det virkede en smule monotont i starten og nok derfor, jeg aldrig er blevet vild med det før, men jo mere det spillede, jo mere kom det under huden, og jeg skal helt klart lytte mere til det!
It doesn't really surprise me that tracks from this album take up most of his popular songs slots on Spotify because this is elliott smith music meant even more specifically for breakups and melancholy than the songs from Figure 8 and I can see this album being a comfort album for depressed millennials. Regardless, I still like Figure 8 a bit more with its bigger production and higher intensity since this was more low-key and singer-songwriterish but it's more a matter of personal preference than objective quality. The lyricism is still top notch and the production is still interesting and well crafted.
I liked it! melancholic music
One song in and this is smooth, well, maybe not smooth, but relaxing. There's a laid back vibe to this, while not being gutless. Smith's vocals are not lacking, not simplistic, despite how utterly quiet, for lack of a better word, that these songs are. And honestly, this sort of quiet fury was just the kind of thing I needed today.
I found this more affecting than I had expected. Somehow it wormed its way into my brain.