Reviews (page 7 of 14)
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.
Ballad of the Big Nothing Between the Bars Angeles
it was OK. 4 stars.
Crushing, and painfully restrained - you can hear the influence this record has had on so many seminal indie albums in the decades since its release. A sometimes aching but beautiful listen. Four and a half. Fave track: Say Yes
A beautiful and haunting record from start to end.
I’ve never heard of this artist but I really liked the album.
Nick Drake for amphetamine users
A great heartfelt piece of slacker folk to listen to anywhere, anytime.
I've listened to this album a few times before. It's one that I know I will have to sit with for a long time to fully appreciate - it's good background music but it's probably even better when you fully pay attention to the songwriting and the lyrics. I could definitely see myself wholeheartedly loving this album someday, but I just don't right now. Still good though.
Favourite track of the album Ballad of Big Nothing.
I have heard stories of Elliott Smith music for a long time now, but I never got into it properly until this album popped up on the list. There is few lists on the Internet with titles along the lines of "The most depressing albums/bands of all time". Elliott Smith was on every one of them. The thing is, as much his backstory and lyrics are gloomy and sad, his music is very much non-existent. It's basically a guy with a guitar reciting his poems, sometimes adding some instruments in the background. Few songs that have an actual band behind him are pretty good, giving more energy into his effort of externalising his painful experience. I liked this album in some way, and I will give it a good rating, but probably this was my last attempt at Smith's music. I'm just not depressed enough to listen to it for more than 10 minutes.
I remember hearing Elliott Smith's music for the first time thanks to a few of these songs being part of the 'Good Will Hunting' soundtrack. I don't think I've listened to this album in full before so I'm glad this project gave me the chance to do so. It's quite good. Gets a little same-sounding after a while, but most albums do that, and because over the years I've migrated more towards playlist listening instead of album listening, I think when I actually listen to an album straight through, my ears aren't used to hearing the same artist for a dozen or so songs. Back to this album: it really is very good and he's a talented writer, composer, and performer.
This wasn't what I expected Elliott Smith to be: I was think more aggressive rock almost male manipulator type music but I surprised. Coming from an artist I have heard so much about it wasn't the best, nothing I would fan girl over but at the same time was pleasant to listen to. A lot of the songs on this album gave vibes of Alex G, another artist with a cult following, and I have to say I somewhat enjoyed the album.
Sat by the back door while it's chucking it down as the storm breaks. Finally listening to Elliott Smith and see what the fuss is about.
I quite enjoyed this one. Gave it a few playthroughs and will have to listen to more of his stuff.
I've been meaning to listen to album for awhile. Glad I finally get to listen to it cause it's a brilliant album, great acoustic music and quite sad (which I like)
te quiero mucho elliott smith 8/10
OK, didn't do much for me but solid enough album
Fantastic album
TIL: the name of an Elliott Smith album and that I like it
A hauntingly beautiful album by the late Elliott Smith.
Grandfather of emo.
Pleasant listening
I don’t think I’d actively listened to Smith before, and this was more my speed than I expected. Gentle, enjoyable.
I loved the atmosphere and the tone. It's a little mournful for where I'm at in my listening right now, but I really liked it.
Always puts me in such a chipper mood!
Sad music, but the kind of sad that comes on late at night when you dwell on every fucked up thing you’ve ever done to someone else. Worth it though.
speed trial - 4☆ alameda - 4☆ ballad of big nothing - 5☆ (top 3) between the bars - 4☆ pictures of me - 5☆ no name no.5 - 5☆ (top 3) rose parade - 5☆ punch and judy - 3☆ angeles - 4☆ cupid's trick - 5☆ 2:45 A.M. - 4☆ say yes - 5☆ (top 3)
A discovery!
A pure acoustic album that’s soft and melancholic. Don’t think there’s a single bad song on this album, and although the sounds and rhythm of the songs can be overly similar at times, it is still a wonderful album to listen to.
Nice and sleepy
Definitely one to revisit. Late night quiet chilled out listening
Elliott Smith is still a favorite
I've hear of Elliott Smith before and maybe even listened to this album, but I don't remember much of it. This time, I put in some effort and really enjoyed it. Pros: short and to the point; beautiful and ear catching melodies; just a perfect production for this sort of album - you can almost feel like you're listening to the dude live in some small obscure venue or in a bedroom; poetic yet easy to understand lyrics.; cohesive as an album. Cons? Only one issue - the lyrics are so depressingly bleak and focus so particularly on alcohol abuse, it's hard to relate sometimes. Say Yes is just a perfect song though. 4.5/5
Qué voz! Qué melodías! Qué pena que ya no esté. Desde "Speed trials" a "Ballad of big nothing", "Between the bars", o "Angeles" que es el prototipo de guitarra y voz desdoblada de Elliot Smith.
Delicate and authentic and powerful due its vulnerability (which would become clearer later). One might have to be younger and more close to the desperate hope inherent to being young and artistic to get the full impact.
8/10 Elliott smith is pretty cool
I like Elliott Smith well enough. Don’t know if I completely get it though. 7/10
Searing and melodic. Progenitor of the Portland Bleat.
I like the sound of this one. Many songs started to sound too similar, but I did enjoy it. Relaxing.
Strongly reminds me of Andy Shauf whom I love Calming but also emotional music Skillfully able to balance sadness with hopefulness 4.5/5
2nd Elliott Smith album and it's good. Still missing something for me, but I enjoyed it a lot. 4.5/5
Really cool and unique artist. Solid songwriting with cool guitar parts. Elliot Smith was really clever with guitar chord voicings and throwing little surprises in. And he played all the instruments himself.
The songs are good, but the album could have been a lot better if the singing wasn't as weak. It's too restrained. As if he didn't want to wake up his little baby in the next room. He sounds like he could have done a lot better if he tried. The songwriting reminds me very much of the Posies. Similar chords and melodies. Favorite song: Angeles.
Dunno why but I liked this a lot, even if it all is a bit slight. A great record.
After about a weeks hiatus, I'm back bitches. I quite enjoy this first tune, really like it actually. The vocal effect is layered and new to me... Interested whether it continues on all tracks. Ok somewhat similar, but enough difference so far (I will say the easier listening albums tend do slightly better because of the first listen nature and most at work...). Enjoyed, decent 4. Lots of good melody and meaningful sounding lyrics, but a bit lacking in variation.
Love him
Nu ner labai super bangeriu, bet visos gana nice, arciau to, ko klausausi, nesinori perjungti. Kazkas idomiau, geriau
Elliot Smith was the poet laureate of the quiet, pained, regret-filled epiphanies of a morning’s hangover. Even two decades after his death, he still is. This album revels - in wicked self-awareness - in its own self-destructiveness.
I like this album. I'm not sure if I like the slower songs more or the faster ones, but either way the songs we're good. Honestly don't have too many thoughts about the album, good, but not too standout to me. 3.5/5 Favorite song: Ballad of Big Nothing Worst song: 2:45 AM
In Elliott Smith's best album, he offers a series of accessible power pop tunes with minimalist folk instrumentation supplementing the depressing tone and lyrics giving it a very rustic edge packed with emotional power. Vocals are reminiscent of Alex Chilton of Big Star. It's strong, coherent, and short, with plenty of standout tracks.
yooooo
I like this. It’s depressing but good. 4/5 83/100
i listened to an elliott smith album a little while ago in my 1001 album journey and loved it. i ended up listening to this album because i liked the other one so much so this was the first album here that i had already listened to!!! it’s highs aren’t as high as figure 8 but i think it’s better overall
👍🏽 B
God this man has such a heavenly voice. I feel like it's hard to evaluate other aspects of his music because I love how his voice sounds so much. The music is very simple and stripped down, and it complements his voice well. 4/5
Never done an ES deep dive, listening to a full album was great
sad, but cleansing.
As someone who has been to Portland, OR one (1) time, I can say with certainty that Elliott's music matches up perfectly with the vibe there
Didn’t get a 5 just because it’s not 5/5 all the way through. but it’s an easy 4.49/5
Not bad - very mellow.
Album is growing on me. Melancholy, but witty, enjoyed the 3 listens
Oh Elliot why have I not listened to you before? Gorgeous voice and songs, very very sad.
Hér er dæmi um tónlist sem var í bakgrunni hjá mér í gamla daga sem reynist svona líka flott þegar nánar er að gáð. Ég gæti hlustað meira.
Very nice, something I might listen to again if I am in the right mood.
This is a very good album. I am not sure it would have made my list, but nonetheless it is very good. This is the last of the Elliott Smith home studio releases. Get past the limited production resources and there are beautiful, simple songs. The songs are dark, but in a haunting way. Post Oscar nomination gave him a major label, but not more beautiful music.
Kolejne pozytywne zaskoczenie z listy, tym razem w postaci ukrytego gema od pana Elliotta Smitha, Either/Or jest trzecim studyjnym krazkiem w jego dyskografii, ale nie jest to typowe studyjne granie, bo calosc byla nagrywana rzemieslniczno w roznorakich studiach, wiec prawdziwie lofikowo, dodac do tego rocznik albumu 97 i biorac pod uwage, ze jest to rokowe folkowanie jednej osoby 37 minut materialu sa prawdziwa uczta spokojnego bardzo moodowego grania, instrumentem ktory najbardziej slychac jest gitarka akustyczna, lecz zdarzaja sie takze traki opierajace sie bardziej na elektryku, do tego miejscowy basik i perkusjowe drumowanie, wszystko grane przez pana Smitha, rzecza nadajaca unikatowego charakteru temu nagraniu jest fakt, ze poszczegolne kawalki byly mixowane przez roznych producentow, wiec pomimo tego ze gra je jeden czlowiek, to jednak potrafia zaskoczyc tym jak brzmia, od strony lirycznej obok niebieskich lowe songow sporo jest tutaj autorefleksji i przemyslen mocno zyciowych, bo przeciez tytul plyty zobowiazuje, a referencje Kierkegaard przypadkowo nie chodza, nawet po zakamarkach indyjskich nagran, nie wiem czy dodawac na plejke polowe plyty, bo raczej jest to nagranie ktore warto sluchac w calosci, zwlaszcza biorac pod uwage, ze 37 minut zlecialo w mgnieniu oka, wiec calosc idzie na poleczke spotifajowa, bo jednak niezbyt czesto dostaje sie cos zupelnie nowego dla ucha, a jednoczesnie tak dobrego, trzeba bedzie sprawdzic reszte dyskografii tego pana, zwlaszcza ze byl jeszcze czescia bandy Heatmiser
Good album, I enjoyed listening to it.
Als je me naar Elliott smith ziet luisteren weet dan dat ik me depressief voel. Angeles prachtig nummer.
I've wanted to listen to Elliott Smith's music for a while now, so I was excited when I got this album. I expected to like it, and I definitely did. I like the overall feeling and tone of this album. My favourite song was Between the Bars.
Elliott's vocals are gentle, pure and comforting. The perfect album to listen to when depressed. Between the bars is exceptionally good. Great, great album overall - I'd recommend to anyone!
He was pretty great. RIP
Pleasant chilled listening, I can see why his music is rated.
New to me but yeah, enjoyed it. Pretty chilled
There are artists as you go through life you do not always give your due, this is one of them for me...Rose Parade and Between Bars were both added to the playlist off this one. I didn't love the whole album but there was nothing off kilter or bad here either...solid listen throughout.
Takes me back to my mid-20s living in Northern California studying literature & working in a dive.
Me sorprendió la verdad
similar vibe to jeff buckley where there is an extra layer of sadness added to the already particularly sad music left behind. I'm partial to a bit of elliott smith and his weird offbeat jazz like music that changes when you don't expect it. just as you think you've settled in to the groove of a track he chucks in some weird strum pattern that kicks you out of the groove and unsettles you a bit.
Elliott Smith must have been a tiny little virgin when he penned this self-indulgent, soppy, sad fuckwhistle of a record. I for one, love it. I identify myself within the lyrics and it makes me want to catch a leprechaun in a net and hump it until morning.
😔 Cheer up, mate. It might never happen. Oh!...😬
If you’re only listening to Elliott Smith’s songwriting and recordings you might find, that he’s just quite the talented singer-songwriter. But when you get the chance to dive deeper into the lyrics behind the songs - that’s when you find out just what a genius Smith truly was. The songs are extremely fragile and combined with Smith’s shivering and shy vocal they’re almost threatening to crumble beneath their own weight - but somehow they never do.
Enjoyed this despite not being the vibe I was after at the point of listening. Was easy to tell it was a good record regardless. Will likely come back to Elliot Smith in the future.
featuring songs that were on the “Good Will Hunting” soundtrack (or sounded like they should have been there), this album provided a calming soundtrack for my lunchtime walk along a quiet forest road. With a sound and lyrics that felt like a cross between Nick Drake and John Mayer into something all his own. I heard Smith’s unique voice and musical arrangements in this album seems to be an early representative of what was to come as we entered the 00s and the sea of syrupy indie songs that flooded all of our favorite guilty pleasures on tv. Who knows how much more emotion-filled music he could have created had he lived beyond 2003 and how many more soundtracks would have benefitted from his presence. This album is worth a listen if only to escape to the late 90s and early 00s, to live in a world like the OC or Gilmore Girls, if only for a fleeting 30ish minutes.
mega first-year-university album for me. Good stuff. 4 stars
Chilling and nice
Really emotionally tumultuous and interesting album, the songs are all solid and themed well but nothing really stood out to me
Not really listened to much Elliot Smith in the past, he’s one of those artist I keep meaning to check out. No Spotify likes previously on this album. Didn’t think I’d have be contemplating Søren Kierkegaard on the weekend. Liked: Speed Trials, Alamada, Ballard of Big Nothing, Between the Bars,
i wish we could give half stars
Hmm, quite ballady album with a rare heavier song. Not my type of listening music, but a good album nonetheless. Fave songs: Pictures of Me, Cupid's Trick, 2:45 AM
I think this is the only Elliott Smith cd I don’t have. All the others I’ve picked up in op-shops over the years. Really enjoyed it. Particularly love his guitar playing. Nearly every song has an acoustic guitar intro and none of them are the same. Some of these intros remind me of Beatles songs (I was expecting him to break into Rocky Racoon at one point); the folky intro to the beautiful Angeles brought Paul Simon’s playing to mind; and I was chuffed to read that he used an open tuning for No Name #5, because that’s the intro that immediately made me think of Joni Mitchell, & open-tuning is her middle name. The lyrics are always interesting, and the melodies are never repetitive. And I love the fact that the album’s title comes from the writing of the philosopher Kierkegaard, because that name immediately transports me to the Piranha Brothers sketch by Monty Python - a man they called Kierkegaard, who just sat there biting the heads off whippets . A great listen.
Melancholy tones, great composures
Darkly minimalist pop music with a hint of sweetness, but an overall bleak and airless vibe. Elliott Smith's songwriting is stunningly good, somehow incredibly vulnerable but prickly and painful to hear. Fave Songs: Say Yes, Between the Bars, Angeles, Punch and Judy, 2:45 AM, Ballad of Big Nothing, Rose Parade, Pictures of Me
I see the appeal. My first listen was through car speakers. I do not recommend that. This album is one that you should listen to with your headphones on while it's raining. There are some songs that I like and few that I truly dislike. In Gen-Z language, this feels like male manipulator music, but at least it's the good stuff. Best Songs: Speed Trials, Between the Bars, Pictures of Me, Say Yes Worst Songs: Rose Parade, 2:45 AM
What an amazing album. Somehow I managed to skip this one in a queue and return to it back after long months. And man would it be a shame to miss it. Lyrically strong and well performed ballads all around.
listen
You good man?
I really like pictures of me and say yes
Great sound, good background
Loved it.
Nice.
20’s music for getting through life in a small town, growing up into your real self.
4.5 stars
I liked this in high school!
ALBUM RATING: 3.6 ALBUM GRADE: B- TRACK RATINGS: 1. Speed Trials - 3.0 2. Alameda - 3.5 3. Ballad of Big Brother - 3.5 4. Between the Bars - 4.5 5. Pictures of Me - 3.5 6. No Name No. 5 - 3.5 7. Rose Parade - 3.0 8. Punch and Judy - 3.0 9. Angeles - 5.0 10. Cupid’s Trick - 3.5 11. 2:45 AM - 3.5 12. Say Yes - 3.5
Reminds me of acoustic Nirvana. Nice unpredictable key changes and melodies with interesting twists with out being unlistenable for a pop listener. Great music that is an approachable accessible combo between sad, happy, and confused. Nice contrast between his gentle voice and then pain you know that he experienced in his life.
Although he had several albums under his belt, Either/Or is considered to be Elliott's true breakthrough; a genuine introduction to a talent that was allowed only a decade or so to shine but who looked and sounded as though he was up there already with the greats. Favorites: Speed Trails, Ballad of Big Nothing, Between the Bars, Pictures of Me, Rose Parade, Punch and Judy, Angeles, 2:45 AM, My New Freedom - Live, Pictures of Me - Live, I Don't Think I'm Ever Gonna Figure It Out, I Figured You Out, Bottle Up and Explode - Alternate Version.
Solid
I could write an essay about each and every Elliott Smith song. There’s just so much to unpack, so many metaphors, so many sad yet clever turns of phrase, so many poignant observations. So what about this album? Well, this one has two particular holds on my affection: “Pictures of Me” is the first Elliott Smith song I ever heard, and “Say Yes” might just be the most beautiful song I’ve ever heard. He’s damaged bad at best.
Such a mysterious voice, great songwriter. Between the Bars gives me the chills every time.
En klassiker
Such a chilling and beautiful performance, I’ve loved this album for years already so was easy to get two plays in
Love Elliot Smith, amazing songwriter
Very vibey, kind of hard to understand the lyrics Better album for an early AM commute lol
Elliott Smith be like
Always liked this.
Way better than expected, good acousti-grunge stuff from the era.
Good acoustic album.
I think I want to come back to this one later
Best Song: Between the Bars. A perfect encapsulation of a particular type of melancholy. The lyrics here are excellent, full of clever double entendres. Worst Song: Cupid's Trick. I found the instrumentals mixed too loud relative to Smith's voice. The drums were fine, but the guitar seemed at odds with the tone he was portraying. Overall: I don't think there's an artist that can sound so vulnerable, and make the listener feel as vulnerable, as Elliott Smith. It is difficult to even articulate what it is about the combination of his whispered vocals and sad, poetic lyrics that is so compelling. It sounds like the coming of a peaceful but inevitable tragedy. Many have imitated, but none have come close to duplicating.
pa siestar
det är ju bra grejer alltså
6/9/2022 - ALBUM #133 Today's Album: "Either Or" by Elliott Smith - This is a really fantastic record and I feel like it's going to be a mouthful to say everything that makes this album great but I guess I'll try my best to keep it brief. First of all, I really think Elliott's vocals make this entire album work as a whole. There is a lot of great things to say about the instrumentals, but the thing that really keeps me engaged throughout the album is the way Elliott is able to sing with such a quiet, melancholic tone. The microphone sounds like it's right up against his mouth most of the time, but it's insane how he's able to maintain control of his voice while staying so hushed. Even when he's really letting loose and shouting out a verse, it either maintains that melancholic tone or he does a sort of whisper scream like he doesn't want to wake his parents (With surprisingly positive results since he still holds such strong control of his voice). The vocals however are only a great execution of what is some seriously amazing songwriting. Not only are the lyrics super dense and hard-hitting, with the general theme of the record being about the sorrow and melancholy of becoming an adult as your expectations and surroundings constantly change around you. There's also a lot of lyrics alluding to this idea of someone inflicting the pain they whine about onto themselves. The track Alameda is a clear example of this with the line, "Nobody broke your heart." I also think the music writing here is pretty damn fantastic, with super tight and catchy choruses and a ton of really unique grooves and guitar licks. The guitar playing is a definite highlight throughout the album with a ton of really impressive riffs and licks and whenever he introduces a drum and bass into the mix, those tracks really shine from it. It's definitely an album that's perfect to listen to top to bottom because the low-energy moments that take up a majority of space here only make the louder moments count more. I heard Angeles while watching Good Will Hunting so when I opened this album, I saw that song was already downloaded and I have to say it's really one of the best tracks here. When I first heard it I was just so stunned by it being able to portray such optimism and melancholy at the same time, and I think that perfectly describes a lot of this project; such a happy sadness to it. I kind of put this album in the punk category in my mind when I first heard it due to it's darker tone, but the more I explore this album it really feels more like an indie folk record with a sort of depressing filter on it. Overall, this is an extremely moving album that truly shines in it's subtlety and is best enjoyed with a pair of headphones. Give this one a listen if you want something sort of sad to listen to after 1am but also want something with great melodies and fantastic performances throughout. Highlights: Speed Trials, Alameda, Ballad Of Big Nothing, Between The Bars, Pictures Of Me, No Name No. 5, Rose Parade, Punch And Judy, Angeles, Cupids Trick, 2:45 AM, Say Yes Score: 8.5/10 A subtle, melancholic masterpiece
Real good
Haunting
Bom álbum
Nisam se jako uzivila u album ovaj put. Al kad sam tuzna i pustim si between the bars ili angels ko sol na ranu je. Al paše
Jedan kvalitetan, depresivan, divan lo-fi/indie folk/rock album, i tu nema diskusije. Depresija: "Što ćete popiti?" Ja: "Može 2:45 am, štrukani."
I absolutely love Speed Trials and it's not because it's the first song on the album. Excellent writing. Can't wait to get into the rest of his discography
I've been meaning to listen to a full Elliot Smith album for years but never did for some reason. I was certainly not disappointed. This is really really good stuff. However I can't quite commit to giving it a full five. I think I need a little "breathing time". At worst this is a very strong 4.
AMO este álbum.
I actually quite liked this; had some interesting moments and great tracks.
alright
Really good singer-songwriter
I assumed this would be depressing but Smith is a gifted singer-songwriter.
Rock folk indie
Haunting. Great indie 90s music.
Sehr comfy und wunderschön instrumentiert. Bekomme irgendwie zum Teil einen David Bowie Vibe, nicht sicher, ob das irgendwie ein persönlicher Knall ist, oder, ob hier wirklich vorherige Popmusik nochmal unter anderem Vorzeichen echot.
i like him ,hes good
Un bon album de elliot smith, j’avais bcp aime lautre sur la liste, celui ci est superieur. 4.25
I feel like I'm only giving out fours now.
Vackert... stark 4
I loved! Tks
Elliott Smith walked so that Sufjan Stevens could fly Those arpeggios are pretty sweet though.
beaucoup de reviews disent que l'ablum est chiant du coup chiante autodiag
No other decade could produce an album like this. Singer/songwriter, mostly with acoustic guitars only, but the chords and melodies have soaked in the full 90ness of things. First word that comes to mind is "angsty". Which isn't bad neccessarily, but I have to be in the mood to listen to this. I'll give it 3.5/5.
Much more familar with XO and Figure 8 so interesting to hear this earlier work
Fire
A bit depressing but not bad.
Very nice, some great songwriting
Bisher wenig gehört, aber immer wieder überzeugt!