Either Or

Sad bastard music. I'll give it a 3, but also don't think this is music that should be dwelt upon for too long.

An okay album, I liked Alameda and Ballad of Big Nothing the most.

Nothing special. Forgot how it sounded the next day

Wasn't super wowed by this, but it was really nice background music. I feel like a lot of care went into making this album. 6/10

Non mi dice niente

This is my first time listening to an Elliott Smith album start-to-finish. This is okay, but I feel like it's very restrained and I want it to let loose more.

Yeah it's fine

Finally some real sad boy shit. It's been a minute. I like the music though, meandering tunes with some unexpected chord progressions. Alameda is a toe tapper. The next couple tracks are more folk though, and I like the acoustic guitar and Smith's slightly breathless voice. It's music for quiet moments, rainy days, especially Between the Bars. Pictures of Me is more uptempo, it's a good indie rock tune over a bouncy beat. Rose Parade is pretty good too, and Angeles, even more stripped down with folk guitar and not much else. I dunno - I wouldn't say any of this feels essential for me, but it's a high floor kind of album. No real bad songs. I suspect it would be a grower too. And none of this is exactly revolutionary now, but a TON of indie bands sounded like this for a decade or two after it came out, so I have to give him his flowers. Another musician taken too soon (dead in 2003, aged 34).

Easy listening. Have never heard of this artist before, but definitely gives main character energy in an indie film vibes.

Bit of a Shins vibe but too slow for me

Amé su voz

Good album. About what you’d expect for an Elliot Smith album, double tracked vocals, melancholy melodies. I hadn’t actually heard this one before, probably prefer basement on the hill but it was still good

I’ve heard this before and I own it. The missus is a fan of Elliot Smith, I like him just fine I guess. I don’t think I’ve listened to this or Elliot Smith in almost 20 years so this will be fun. First thing I notice is these are not as depressing as I remember, I think his suicide kinda darkened my view of the songs for a while. The songs without any backing band are a little too tinny for my taste, part of that has to do with his whisper-singing which is detrimental to these songs, but also the low end seems entirely cut out of the acoustic guitar. Luckily the songs with a backing band are more full and his singing voice works perfectly fine here. Altogether, the songs and arrangements are good, production is decent, I like it just fine I guess.

Album 1066 of 1089 Either Or - Elliott Smith (1997) Rating : 3 / 5 As is usually the case with his music, this was a pleasant listen. Elliott Smith has a way of creating a quiet, introspective space without forcing it. The songs unfold gently. Nothing flashy. Nothing loud. Just thoughtful writing and subdued delivery. There weren’t any moments that jumped out and grabbed me, but there also weren’t any that pushed me away. It just flowed along in that familiar Elliott Smith lane - mellow, slightly fragile, and very personal. It’s the kind of album you put on when you want something calm and reflective. It doesn’t try to overwhelm you, and maybe that’s part of its charm. Not over the top, not earth-shattering but just a nice, steady moment spent with a talented songwriter. Sometimes that’s enough.

3,5/5

Say Yes / Pictures of Me I really like Elliot Smith's vibes, feels somber but also very light at the same time. Like when you eat too much, so much that you feel you'd explode if you eat anything else except a little piece of candy. It's that piece of candy.

Solid folky pop album highlight is between the bars

I know nothing of Elliott Smith beyond the name ringing a bell, always assumed he was an earnest singer songwriter. Pretty much. I didn't dislike it, would have preferred more like Cupid's Arrow.

So whispery. Good stuff just not for me

Generally solid but feels pretty conventional. Say Yes/Angeles my favorites

Indie folk, indie rock, lo-fi, Americana. Worth a revisit.

Der US-amerikanische Singer-Songwriter nahm Either/Or überwiegend im Jackpot! Recording Studio in Portland auf, ergänzt durch weitere Sessions in kleineren lokalen Studios. Das Album bewegt sich zwischen Indie-Folk und Lo-Fi, geprägt von zurückgenommenen Arrangements, mehrspurigen Gitarren und leisen, nah mikrofonierten Vocals. Songs wie „Between the Bars“, „Angeles“, „Say Yes“ und „Alameda“ zeigen seine Fähigkeit, fragile Melodien mit klar strukturierten Songformen zu verbinden. Die Produktion bleibt bewusst schlicht und lenkt den Fokus auf Harmonie und Text. Trotz der Intimität wirkt das Album nie unfertig, sondern konzentriert. Für mich ist Either/Or ein in sich geschlossenes Werk, das durch Zurückhaltung und Konsequenz überzeugt.

Ballad of Big Nothing stood out. Such a soft album. Had trouble hearing him sometimes, but then he would speed things up and didn't mind his voice. This is something I would revisit and listen to more of his catalog. 3.5/5

easy to listen toooo

It's probably not for me, but I can see how this would appeal to a lot of people. Enigmatic, sad songs sung by a almost whispered voice, set against minimal backing. And made all the sadder by the knowledge that this isn't an act. His life really was that sad. Glad I heard it although I'll probably never listen to it again.

Sometimes this dude's whiny vocal delivery works for me, and sometimes an makes an otherwise fine-enough-or-even-good track VERY difficult to get through without rolling my eyes. The problem is that which moments are which along the album's runtime is not consistent. I think it's down to my mood/how much attention I'm paying to what I'm listening to more than anything...

Top Songs: Speed Trials Alameda Rose Parade Angeles

nostalgiaaaa. Hard to pick a favorite but i have to say sounds of science

fav songs: ballad of big nothing pictures of me say yes intimate, lo-fi, melancholic 50/100

Not for the me I am now. but maybe for the me that was?

All sounded the same, couldn't relate. 2.5/5

This has been the most successful attempt I have made to get into this album. Still though, its not really my thing. I enjoy a few of the songs, but overall Elliot Smith really just isn't my vibe. Its good for what it is, but I'm almost never in the mood for it.

Tää oli ihan positiivinen ylläri. Ei ihan kärkipiateisin yllä mutta sopi hyvin vallitsevaan tunnelmaan. Voisin kuvitella tutustuvani artistin muuhunkin tuotantoon

This was fine.

Pleasant, but nothing special in my opinion. None of the songs stood out in any way, and I found Smith's almost whispered voice too precious to sustain my interest over an entire album.

Solid, yet unremarkable to me. Solid one to own, but a little one noted for me.

Not bad. RIP.

fine but nothing special

Really enjoyed this

3/5

I can definitely see the potential, and teenage me would probably have loved this album and plastered her room with Elliott Smith posters. Favorite tracks: Speed Trials, Pictures of Me, Say Yes 3.5/5

I didn't know this singer/songwriter. Good sound. Very listenable.

not my usual taste but some bangers

Nothing I've heard here sounds new, but it's put together really well. Sad acoustic pop with Beatles-ish lyrics and melodies. It doesn't quite sound like the album art, it's not grungey, his voice has a higher pitch than your typical male. It's not angsty, it's like a delicate assertive melancholia. I can see myself in the mood for light music with very nice production, and potentially thinking back on this effort. 3.2/5

I'm incredibly 50/50 with Elliot Smith's music. I'm totally indifferent to his self-titled album and I love Figure 8. I'm somewhere between with this one. It's a lot more pleasant to listen to than his self-titled, but I prefer his music after he got signed to a big label and got a backing band. There were some hints towards his sound change on this album that I liked, it's like a perfect middle ground connecting his self-titled with Figure 8.

I liked this slightly more than than the other album he has on the list. Neither are particularly great but he's got a soothing voice.

I'm not in a great mood to learn to appreciate a new style of music. This guy sounds like a whiner and a lot of the songs have a similar plaintive sound that I can sometimes like (keening), but in this case rubs me the wrong way. Didn't mind 2:45 AM. Not a huge fan.

Occasionally interesting, mostly boring and depressing

I've had a few ones lately that I've been a bit uninspired by. In particular it's the 90s Pacific North West sound that Nirvana generated, that kind of infected everything. It sounds like the Portland climate. Sad and melancholy. It's strange that 90s music was so angsty when the world was going through a pretty good time. Music from the 70s and 2020s is comparatively more upbeat in general, especially North American music and times are worse now than the 90s. I don't know what Kurt and Co were complaining about.

Chiar ii fain

3.5 lyssna igen

"New Slang" by The Shins and "Two Headed Boy" by Neutral Milk Hotel were the next tracks that came up after this album ended on YouTube Music for me. They were pretty fitting after this singer songwriter album. It was alright. Enjoyable enough to be solid background music, but not necessarily something that I'd gravitate to play again. 3 of 5

Sad singer songwriter stuff, a bit monotonous

Fattest and slimmest.

Great soundtrack for a gray day. This one has grown on my with subsequent listens. At first it was just lo-fi sad boy music, which is a genre I enjoy, but nothing really stood out. Taking a little more time with the lyrics is what sold me on this album. Adding to my rotation.

Came into this not knowing Elliot Smith, other than the wonderful Angeles which is on this album. It's an interesting listen. I really enjoy the production, with the double tracked vocals giving a really intimate feeling. Left me wanting to listen to Sufjan Stevens, who I would speculate is probably heavily inspired by Elliot Smith but has a little bit more warmth. The songs are generally a bit depressing, but carry touches of sweetness and plenty of poignant lyrics. 2:45 AM is another standout and the album closes perfectly, with 'Say Yes' a beautiful bittersweet song which feels more hopeful than what came before it. All this said, even after a few listens, there are a few too many tracks which blend into each other and don't stand out overall. Will look out for other albums by him with interest. Solid 6/10

excelente disco para ambientar escenas melancólicas, aunque no se si es algo que seguiré escuchando regularmente

Idk. Sad boi music. For sad boi music, it isn't terrible.

Isto burazz nisam slušao ceo album nee moguu brree. Poslušao sam par pesma tkd.... Ocena za album 3/5

Un álbum muy triste con algunos temas que me gustaron. Entiendo por qué dicen que era un genio pero no termino de engancharme. Capaz debo escucharlo otra vez.

Well, not one I can say I've conciously listened to in the past but I definitely know the name. Enjoyed - more American emo indie, can see why the following was so big.

Me gustó. Particularmente: - Between The Bars - Pictures Of Me - No Name No. 5 - Rose Parade - Punch and Judy - Cupid's Trick - 2:45 AM - Say Yes

Overall, I enjoyed this album! It reminds me a lot of what I was listening to when I had just graduated high school. Great lyrics!

Was feeling pretty underwhelmed by this again, being my third or forth time trying out Elliott Smith. But catching up on his life story, while it shouldn't be necessary, definitely cements his eerie sound. Angeles is probably my favorite. Cupids Trick is a real nice surprise near the end of the album.

Ikke verst! Noe ekstremt sært og goofy, men et par bangers faktisk HØY 3 star

初めて聴いた。こっちの方が先だと思うけど中村一義みたいなインディーロックだなと思った。 間違いなくいいアルバムなんだけど自分には刺さらなかった。

It's good but doesn't make me feel as much as expected. There are songs that hit right on the feels still. 3.25/5

Ok

Rustgevende achtergrondmuziek

Good

Mostly pretty boring, generic pop-rock

Honestly this wasn't as bad as I expected it to be

I can understand why this is an important album to a lot of people, but largely the album doesn't do a lot for me. Angeles and Cupids Trick are the standouts but Rose Parade especially is a real drag. Lyrically Smith is interesting but, other than two songs mentioned above, there's nothing overtly dynamic about him musically that really stands out to me. I think my big issue is that I just find it kind of boring? On first listen I panned it but revisited thinking there was something I was missing - went from a 2 star to a 3 star.

all the songs were pretty chill. would listen when relaxing or drawing

Elliot Smith is a conflicting one for me. I only discovered his music last year, after learning how many of my favourite artists attribute Smith as a great inspiration - Phoebe Bridgers, Big Theif, Clairo. Despite this, I don't find his music as easy to listen too? I wonder if I’d grown up with it, would I resonate more? At this moment in life, I find it almost unrelatable and too angsty to really enjoy. That said, perhaps his musics isn't to be enjoyed as such. The rawness of his lyrics are parallel to his life - understanding more about his background was interesting and adds depth to the melancholy lyrics…art that makes you think. Clearly I just hate thinking.

3.5

Decent background music, nothing groundbreaking

personal taste of course but prefer Elliot smith stuff without the band, feel like it distracts from the rawness/vulnerability of the songs. Also the drum sound is objectively bad (snare sound is gross, especially in tracks like Alameda). That aside I enjoyed plenty of stuff on here- I preferred the second half from “No Name no 5” onwards. Favourite track probably the closer “Say Yes”. Some of the Melodies across the album are lovely- and he’s got a great thing of throwing in a certain chord or a lyric that really pulls you into the song

Not a massive fan, like the music it inspires tho

It was good but a little too melancholy for me

I don't remember Good Will Hunting enough to be into this.

I think I simply wasn't sad enough in this way to enjoy this as much as it's hyped. Nice 90s background music anyway.

He has a really pretty voice. Very easy to listen to. I’d heard Between the Bars before.

This is my first review/album listen for the group, so I'm excited that I liked it well enough. A very melodic sound, I'd never heard of Elliott Smith before but saw songs in this album with over 100M streams so clearly others had before. Say Yes, Pictures of Me, and Rose Parade were favorites. However, the sound did blend together on a few songs and I don't think I'd often be listening to this style of music.

Fine

Say Yes is a classic. The rest of the album is good.

One of those albums where if you told me you it was made in the last couple of years I would believe you. Very melancholic but obviously it’s Elliott Smith.

Fine. Above average.

Nice relaxing sound with thoughtful lyricism.

Listened to this on a sunny, morning drive to the coast. Way too dreary for that environment. Doubt I will listen again

not my kind of sad music but picture of me is a good ass song. go sad white boy music but done well

I had a giant review typed out for this and the page refreshed…. Best: Alameda Worst: Cupids Trick I really loved some of the songs on this but I’m not sure I was quite sad enough for it to really resonate with me, although between the bars did make me quite emotional, I think I will save this album and have another listen when I’m in a better suited mood. Smiths lyricism and vocals were great and I loved the grittiness, the chords on Alameda were beautiful and I found them quite hypnotic.

Too slow paced but comes with his style and territory. But ultimately a really good album that deserves to be on a top ? List.

It was alright. Don’t stand out for any reason.

Not bad, idk

I’m pretty sure I like Elliott Smith quite a bit but I don’t revisit him very often because actually my goal is to be LESS depressed. This is a 3 that wants badly to be a 4 but it just takes too much out of me.

Overall nice vibes

whispery vocals 90s alt rock drum sounds like the bottom of a garbage can

I could see me getting into this. Very laid back, which is what I am into now. He was peak 90's, and I know we lost him too soon.

Generic, sounds nice but I don't think I will be listening to it again. I didn't find anythings out of ordinary in this album, but I liked Pictures of me and Ballad of big nothing.

For me, it all sounds the same.

Disco "gostosinho" de ouvir, sem compromisso e sem muitas expectativas. Uma boa trilha sonora para um fim de dia estressante ou uma tarde preguiçosa de domingo.

This album boasts a really cool 90s vibe and some wonderfully intricate musicianship, but it lacks any kind of wow factor. The vocals are fine and the melodies are fine. It’s all just fine. There are three songs, just rehashed to make a full length album. Tracks are indistinguishable from each other, they all kind of blend into one and nothing really grabs the ear. It’s all a bit safe. I fear that Elliott’s tragic early death adds to the feeling that we have to like this album, and I do like it; I just don’t love it. It’s inoffensive to listen to, but it’s not particularly interesting. Eels does this a lot better, so I’m looking forward to revisiting “Beautiful Freak”.

Nice record, gave it a second listen as I enjoyed the first one. That said, he's not exactly inventing anything new here...

Technically brilliant, beautiful in parts - but can't listen to a lot of him in one go - soooooo sad

Quite good

album art had me expecting some dogshit hair rock or something but this was a pleasant enough, though boring, ride

Holy shit, I just read the Apple Music writeup about this album and it's so over the top in it's effusive praise, it's hard to read. I'm not saying I don't get this album because I absolutely do. Yes, in a world where there were still abrasive, loud, male fronted bands in the post-Nirvana era, this guy just was doing things differently. Slow, quiet, BARING HIS SOUL LYRICS with simple arrangements. I get why people like this music, and I wish I did. It's not terrible, it's just not anything I'd want to listen to.

Quiet and sad.

= The Beatles

Aye decent

nothing is loud but everything hurts

Very nice. 3.5

Man could write a ballad

Some really good tracks. Not familiar with the artist.

Not sure if I really can't

its good, i can understand why people like it so much

Overall Rating - 3.29/5 (6.58/10). Nothing really great, but nothing bad, either.

Guess I have my fill of melancholy emo indie music for the day. Smith's stuff is nice enough to listen to, in small doses.

Non male nel complesso

I always want to like Elliott Smith more than i do. Pleasant enough.

Enjoyable but forgettable

Solid opening. I've heard XO before and liked it so this really isn't a huge surprise. Overall it's an enjoyable listen but I would have appreciated more variety in the album as many of the songs sound the same.

ni fu ni fa

I can tell why it’s a classic. Not my normal cup of tea, and it’s easy to see the influence in the emo scene later. Still, very solid. I really like the bass lines that come in from time to time

Cover 4

I didn't find this as interesting/good as Figure 8, but I enjoyed it decently enough!

Mys! Ännu bättre när han drar på lite, typ i Cupid’s Trick

приятный но наверно сплошняком долго слушать надоест, специфичный вокал (с турин брейкс меня это не останавливает хохо)

On the whole the album was pleasant. As I was listening there wasn't anything that really captured my attention, it was just pleasant music to listen to as I thought about other things. I did noticed some foul language which some would find objectionable, but nothing really grabbed me. I had to listen to the album twice to find: best song, "Rose Parade" and worst song, "Cupid's Tricks".

I had never heard much Elliot smith, first time album, just of his untimely passing and his rather depressing music, and I had a lot of that hear, but with shades of light and quality guitar playing thst makes the troubled singer captivating Favorite tracks are ballad of big nothing, rose parade and 2:45. The harmonies and acoustic low-fi work can strike me as very moody. If I was in a certain mood, this music could hit very hard and would feel much stronger then I do.

Best: "Ballad of Big Nothing" Worst: "Cupid's Trick"

There are some singer-songwriters whose work demands closer listens to find the fragile, tortured genius lurking behind the surface. And sometimes you’re midway through a three-year, one-a-day project to listen to 1000+ albums. Sorry Elliott, I just didn’t have the time or patience for a third go through. This was nice enough but failed to really grab or excite me. I hope he’s at peace now, though.

I should love Elliot Smith but I don’t. Something about his voice grates on me. The repetitive lyrics, the general vibe. Just never works for me. It is cakewalk great music though. I can hear that. I just don’t really like it.

Good, catchy. No hooks nothing heart stopping.

The album is boring. The recording is good. Lyrics are ok. But it just seems to drone on from 1 song to the next. It's not a bad album but more something I would play as background music.

Not bad. Bit dull.

3.2/go get em white boy

Mixed bag. Quite a few Low fi under developed stripped back one paced with the snare being overused. Ballad of Big Nothing was my favourite - I think I’d like Teenage Fanclub to cover this, they’d make it all better - harmonise with other voices rather than his own layering. Pictures of Me has potential to be a better song. Angeles reminded me a lot of Sufjan Stevens - which is no bad thing. Cupid’s Trick a bit rockier. Overall disappointing edges out interesting. Can’t see me revisiting this album but may try another of his. Generous 3.

Have tried to get into Mr Smith before because of his influence on the fantastic Phoebe Bridgers. I tried again, but mostly failed. I've been here before with Badly Drawn Boy...sometimes just a man and a guitar just isn't enough.

Fleetingly interesting, was perhaps expecting a little more. Not grunge but had some of the same vibes, very 90s Pacific NorthWest I suppose..

Feels like Grunge but without the bite. Definitely uplifting in some songs.

Seth Cohen music

Was not familiar with him. Listened through a few times enjoying more each time.

Ok I think I liked it. The lyrics were cool. The music was a tiny too mellow, but chill enough

Enjoyable enough.

Ebis-musik? Absolut. Dock var första hälften föga intressant för mig, sk. ensigt. Till min förvåning vänder det mot den andra hälften. Mysigt album jag gärna återvänder till. Bästa låt: Angeles 3/5 kandelabrar Ebstar ut

Has a strong indie Americana feel. I liked the raw feel. Musically interesting timing, melodic changes and harmonies. Works well as background music. First half of the album felt stronger to me, the later songs more similar and melancholic.

Have to be in the mood for Elliott Smith. Hits and misses on this one but overall it's a pretty album.

I’m not strong either way on this one. I’d be happy to have it playing in the background at a dinner party or in a cafe but a couple of listens through had me itching to change it up a bit to anything else

Pretty samey and uninspiring for me, although I did feel like he was pouring his heart into it, so earns an extra star.

9 inch nails without the nails. Not my cup of tea

Listens: 3 Standout Tracks: Pictures of Me, Rose Parade I don't really have any feelings about this album. My sister like Elliot Smith, but for me he's just okay. Certainly not mind blowing. Not terrible either. I wouldn't have been able to tell you that three of the songs are featured on Good Will Hunting, apparently. Eh.

Ok - nothing that particularly grabs you

Not too bad, there were some really good songs on here.

This album was ok. Nothing really stuck with me after listening, but it didn't annoy me either. It just was. It was an album I listened to. Also listened to. FKA twigs, eusexua. Beautiful. 218. Zero 7, When It Falls. Not adding a number as ive listened to it many times. It's an album I listen to on long journeys as it gives me a shroud of beauty around me that helps keep me safe from the anxiety of boarding the wring train. Zero 7 are rhe perfect band in my opinion, you get the feeling every note, every rise and fall, is planned to within an inch to create the perfect ambience for every song.

It's just, its so hard to on a normal sunny day to turn this on. It's so great for when you need it - but dreaded listening to it today. Though Say Yes, might be one of the most beautiful songs ever written.

my last name is a song

I don’t remember what I gave the last E. Smith album but I thought this one was better. You definitely have to be in right mood for it but I can understand why it was used in movies to invoke a mood.

Another gently atmospheric album - that I'm pretty sure would score higher after more listens.

Very mid-90s, slacker movie soundtrack. Not bad and will listen to more by Elliott Smith

soort middle of the road singer-songwriter... niet slecht maar veel te braaf

I choose Bill Elliott instead.

Never heard before. Surprising I've never heard this. I like folk music and 90s Americana. It's a good album that checks both those boxes at points. I'm not a big fan of his voice or singing style, but the songs are all solid. Not one bad song on the album, but only a handfull really caught me on my first listen. Seems like an album I have to re-listen to to really get it, but I'll give it 3/5 for now. Best songs: Ballad of Big Nothing, Rose Parade, Cupid's Trick, 2:45 AM

Bit more up my street, very 90s, Beck vibes - nothing that'll stick in my head, but solid overall.

genuinely had to check a few times if this was Surf-jam Stevens or not. Sad mood these days so why not. Nothing particularly special though, and even for 1996, hardly a fresh sound (may be wrong on that though)

Feels like the 90s alright!

Not bad!

eh

Fundamentally solid vibes music. However, makes me feel like an insane person when I see the numbers still pulled on streaming, etc. It’s nice and emotional, but it is nothing particularly special and most tracks fail to resonate the way this kind of music needs to in order to have any meaningful impact at all, in the absence of varied or technical performance.

Not the chirpiest 🤣

Punch And Judy was my favorite, at times the songs blend into eachother, which in this case is not a bad thing. I guess this is the start of bedroom indie, or the seeds of what would become that genere.

Acoustic Emo sitting outside a college library under a tree for being "misunderstood" feelings. So many miskeyed harmonies that it's feeling like a 5th grade concert. I will not deny that the music is well paced and written, but his vocals really detract from some technical guitar playing.

Not sure what it is about this that screams 90s, but it took me back, even though I never listened to him back in the day. This needs more of my attention. Added to my library and will revisit.

Low 3? Not a fan of the vocals and not enough happens dynamically for me

3,3/5

I would call this “aggressively okay,” but it’s far too mellow for that. It was good enough, though, that I might look up the song that got him nominated for an Academy Award. If I can remember to do that after my nap.

Good, but it sounds too much like someone trying to sound like the Beatles.

If I ever listened to this album too many times in a row, I'm relatively certain I would drift off into a pleasant coma. I'll need to keep that in mind, should the need arise.

Wasn't memorable, hadn't heard it before

--Speed Trials...I'm neutral on this one --Alameda...I like it but the production is doing a lot of the heavy lifting --Ballad of Big Nothing...nice but nothing special --Between the Bars...here we go. beautiful and haunting --Pictures of Me...more of a band feel. it's fine --No Name No. 5...I like this one. the layering of his voice can be cool, but I like it more when Smith's voice track is isolated --Rose Parade...pleasant to listen to. a little repetitive --Punch and Judy...again, nice but nothing special --Angeles...the more "solo" sounding the song is the more I enjoy it. this guy probably owned open mic nights before getting semi-famous --Cupid Trick...another "band" song. not bad not special. --2:45 a.m....interesting. it tells a story and I want to know more --Say Yes...nice closer

Soft 90s rock. Smooth listen

Angsty and depressing.

I liked this more than the other ES album, but still not my bag.

3/5 неплохо, можно 3,5/5, но нельзя так. Побольше разнообразия, чем в прошлом Будь я дырявым педиком - поставил бы 5

чилоово ставлю тройбан

I've heard a lot of great things about this album and Elliott Smith. It was cool, but maybe expectations from all the hype didn't quite match.

I really dont love the way his vocals are recorded on a lot of this album, like he’s singing through an old landline telephone. Moody, depressing. But a vibe.

Grew up with a lot of people idolizing Elliott Smith & never really explored his music. This was a good listen

Feels like the grandfather of whiny death cab for cutie style indie/alt stuff. Enjoyable, but I wouldn't revisit this over DCFC or Modest Mouse or anybody in that sphere.

Enjoyable! Very consistent vibe throughout the whole album.

Portland singer songwriter. Cool sound. 3/5

For me, Elliott Smith and several songs off this album will always be synonymous with the movie Good Will Hunting.

Did not know this album. It must need more than one listen to appreciate at all. It just seems like whining.

Good sounds with a few solid cuts but overall was forgettable, surely appreciate the whole structure of sound building but the cake doesn't taste that great.

Folk indie. Reminds me of Simon and Garfunkel, in places like Beatles. Some post-grunge inflections (guitar tones in places)? Cupids Trick definitely grunge! Don't know why this is needed when S+G already existed. Don't mind the music, but the vocals are a bit annoying Good musicianship. Seems like a timeless style (in that it doesnt feel dated) Best track - No Name No. 5, Rose Parade 3 stars

It's too 90s for me to be honest - the overproduction is a sign of it's time and it just makes me feel uneasy and uncomfortable. That said this wasn't terrible I guess.

Songs were same-y, words weren't particularly clear when singing

A very good album. The music is definitely engaging and the perfect solution to dealing with the grind, but it's not my kind of music.

Not bad

The album that comes on when you know it’s time to leave the after party. It’s nice and everything, but I’m assuming the people that listen to this need to narrate it

Quite melancholic lyrics that help me understand why so many young people felt accompanied in their solitude, failed love and daily alienation, also through the depiction of unsettling scenarios and a sense of hopelessness toward the world. I admire his ability to perfectly accompany this with the music, with his acoustic guitar tuned lower than standard, effectively transmitting that dive into the depth of the simplest thoughts. It's such a (relatively) simple and natural work that felt very clear to me, without any contrived tricks. Favorite song: No Name No. 5.

Relaxt, wel een beetje emo Maar daar hou ik wel van Hij heeft wel een beetje een jankstem Ik ben niet echt weggeblazen

It’s not perfect, but maybe that’s the point. The songs feel fragile and intimate, like you’re overhearing something private

Fine

Enjoyable. Milestone for a lot of friends of mine. Just not for me.

This is #day389 of my #1001albumsyoumusthearbeforeyoudie challenge, and… here's to my second Elliott Smith record on the list, the first being his last, on my #day45, which, funnily enough, I also got in September. I might have been in a different mood back then, as I rated that one a 4 (I might reconsider my rating after listening to this one, though). Either/Or, while labeled as an important/influential album, doesn't quite sit right with me. It all blends into the same kind of overly "delicate melancholy" for me. I like my melancholy different. In this time of year, I usually have Lake Of Tears' Forever Autumn on my mind. Other times, I'll go and blast some Carissa's Wierd. Yeah, I'm being me. Let it be a 3 out of 5 for now. Looking forward to #day390.

Good songwriting and nice songs. No real outliers for me.

I knew this album. I think it was the first one i knew on the list. I had a few friends that really liked him. He is very unique but it was just good

Only a little bit boring. I could listen to a few songs regularly, but a whole album of this isn't ideal. Not much to any of these songs and that works. I liked "Alameda" and "Between The Bars" the best. Fine album all around.

ouvi gostei meio beatles mas é um cabra só

It’s good but it needed to pick up the pace.

Same mellow vibe throughout. Made me sleepy. Would be good to play as background music while reading.

Chill but didn't kick in much

3/5

I should like this. Should. Talented musician. Good lyrics. But I just don’t. But three stars for being a very talented artist.

I would need to be in the right mood for this to hit perfectly, but I enjoyed it for what it was. Definitely some clever songwriting. Reminded me of Sebadoh in some places...and Bon Iver in others.

Kai tämä taa sellaista tasaista ⭐️⭐️⭐️ on.

Tähän piti laittaa että ihan kivaa maailua.

Perfectly serviceable softspoken (enough) sounds of indie / alternative.

my mom says this is blow ur brains out music but to me it’s nod my neck off vibes !

Pas mal, calme, apaisant, entraînant 7/10

Elliott Smith's "Either Or" is a good album, and it's even more interesting when you consider his personal history. Dancing through the early tracks to the solo acoustic performance soon transitions to power chords as Smith ascends to his heralded future as a rock star. Overall, I found some of the songs to be big standouts like "Between the Bars" and "Say Yes," but found that the space in between was less gripping for me. The style was wispy and dreamlike, and certainly ahead of its time. Elliott probably could've been even bigger if he hadn't left this world early, and that is something I am truly sad about.

Really loved the range of emotions on this album, One song will be sad and depressing then the next is happy and uplifting, it’s such a rollercoaster. The music is pretty simple but still very unique in its own right.

3.1

Weirdly ethereal stuff. Not to my taste, but I can see the attraction. Felt quite samey. A little bit simon and garfunkel

First I had heard of Elliott smith or any of the music. It was ok! Went for a vibe and achieved it.

Kinda fun mopey stuff, but for me, it's just background listening. A nice vibe to put on once in a while, maybe, while doing other stuff.

It's alright. Not my favorite genre, but I appreciate it for what it is!

It is good

¯\_(ツ)_/¯, think i’d rather listen to sufjan if i want soft vocals and guitar

Honestly not a fan, I can see the appeal, but not for me

Nick Drake 2.0 I respect this, more so than the previous album, but it’s still not for me. Still listening to Black Sabbath. I concur that if I get divorced I’ll be crying playing this on repeat. One point for the 90’s. Deserves better but m hiding this is the 3’s.

So true bc I Either think a song on here is a genius indie pop composition Or an overly emo missed opportunity.

sad I missed this album in 1997. really enjoyed it, even if I wanted him to change his delivery.

самобытно вроде, но и уныло - средняк короче

Reminded me a little of 90s alt bands like Sloan and Moist

Good album. The soft, quiet singing over acoustic guitars sounds a lot like Simon and Garfunkel. I might need more time with this album.

That's not my taste in music - But ok

Started out strong for me, slowly lost steam. Not a bad album by any means, just felt a little repetitive.

Love Elliott Smith but in small doses

This is the type of stuff Dad would say it was a classic even though he has NEVER listened to this

I’m a cis woman and I think I have more testosterone than this album does. The songs are all pretty, and a few are even very pretty, but I accidentally listened to it 1.5 times because my attention kept drifting away.

It was ok, but it didn't blow me away. But it was an ok listen.

I can appreciate that Elliott Smith, and likely this album, were hugely influential for a generation of disaffected "art kids" and countless early-00's emo bands. This album feels like a collection of that one slow acoustic song that every rock band has towards the back of their album. Like a Cap'n Crunch's OOPS! All Berries(R) of acoustic proto-emo, minus the sugar. If someone gave me a burned copy of this in highschool, I'm sure it would have resonated and frequently been in the 3Disk CD player next to my homework desk. Instead, the longest running rotation I can remember was: Jimmy Eat World's Clarity, Beulah's The Coast Is Never Clear, and Pete Yorn's Music For The Morning After... All considerably less depressing than this, which was probably for the best. Unlike I was in highschool, I'm not in a place in my life where I can fully embrace ES anymore. I don't think I'd revisit this album but I don't regret listening to it and I hope Elliott rests in peace.

There's a lot to love about this album, but unfortunately, this is just not my thing. Overall, I like the vocals and instrumentation, but this somber, melancholic music doesn't interest or excite me in any way. I can appreciate it, sure, but I listen to music for fun and this is not that fun to me. Too slow, too grounded, and too minimalist. Good album, but I would've rated it higher if that kind of music interested me. 7/10

Really on the fence but I think this one has to be a 3, just feels lacking on songwriting diversity, which tends to be the issue with so many acoustic alternative albums. He’s got a nice voice, and the songs individually are a decent to good quality, but the album just lacks the dynamics and diversity to keep it interesting all the way through. Speed Trials (7/10) Alameda (8/10) Ballad of Big Nothing (7/10) Between the Bars (8/10) Pictures of Me (8/10) No Name No. 5 (7/10) Rose Parade (8/10) Punch and Judy (6/10) Angeles (7/10) Cupid’s Trick (7/10) 2:45 AM (6/10) Say Yes (7/10) 7.2/10

Nice enough

Can’t really remember the album but think it was pretty good

I had never heard of Elliot Smith. I read up on his story, and found it quite sad. This album was pretty decent, albeit quiet plain. I added 3 songs to my library though.

I was expecting much more from this as I have heard of him and know that he is a singer songwriter, my favorite genre. However it felt like no one track stood out to me, ultimately was not that interesting to my ears.

soothes the nerves

Mid, bit too cutesy

Soft rock album that seems a bit timeless. Not my bag but it wasn’t bad.

Its fine. Its not a bad listen but nothing really striked me. I liked Between the Bars because it kinda sounded like Rocky Racoon that went really nice.

Nice songwriting. Just didn’t grab me.

I did not expect this album to be as pleasing as it was. Very nice. Liked the harmonies. I thought the drums hit really hard for some reason.

This one is pretty good. It's definitely melancholy music. There's a few very good tracks but it's maybe just a bit too slow and quiet. Favorite track: probably "Say Yes"

It’s like a more depressed, more mediocre Beatles. It’s still good because it sounds like them, but I would never listen to this over something like Abbey Road or Revolver

Man, what a heavy legacy behind such a feather-light voice. The songs feel homespun. It’s not really my jam, but I’m glad I heard it. Like meeting someone you know won’t stick around, but still leaves a mark. Spins: 2 Playlist Additions: - Between The Bars - Angeles - Say Yes

yeah good album

It started off feeling like unpolished demos but there were a couple good songs in there

The epitome of coffee shop music.

2:45 AM / Angeles

Going into this, I had never listened to Elliott Smith before, so I wasn't familiar with any of his albums or songs. Either/Or turned out to be an excellent introduction — a brilliant, emotionally resonant album that showcases Smith's talent beautifully. His songwriting is quietly devastating, filled with poetic, introspective lyrics and hauntingly beautiful melodies. The production is raw and intimate, giving the album a timeless, deeply personal feel. It’s easy to understand why Either/Or is considered one of the defining singer-songwriter records of the 1990s, and after this listen, I’m eager to explore more of his back catalogue. Favourite Track: “Alameda” stood out as the highlight for me, though it was a close call. “Speed Trials,” “Ballad of Big Nothing,” “Pictures of Me,” and “Angeles” are all equally compelling. Least Favourite: While the album is strong overall, there are a few moments that felt less inspired. Tracks like “Rose Parade” and “No Name No. 5” come across as more generic and lack the emotional punch of the stronger songs. These dips keep the album just shy of a perfect score. Album Artwork: The cover is cool and understated, complementing the mood and tone of the music well.

It's fine. Kind of just a chill moody vibe. Nice to study to but it wasn't very dynamic and only a couple songs stood out.

Listened before. Decent

20/06/2025 It was okay, not really my cup of tea.

This was significantly better than the other Elliott Smith album. Not sure I'd come back to this one, but I wouldn't be as bummed out about this one.

Not too bad, I’d give this one a 3.5 if I could

Didn't get a full listen on this one. Seems a bit slow and moody for me, but maybe in the right situation it could hit right. I'll have to revisit this later.

It needed a little more Punch and a little less Judy. I do see the vision though, one of the few artists where I can actually hear and appreciate his mix of influences, a bit of a softer Elvis Costello with some Dylan in there. Overall intrigued by the guy, looking forward to his next album.

7:10

a bit slow & quiet, good for some chilled out listening

I am SO SORRY maybe I'm in a weird music day but except for like two songs I couldn't get into this one at all.... I know, I know, a crime. I'm sorry. Just throw me in jail already

If it's good enough for Good Will Hunting, then it's good enough for me.

Indie rock Chill Calm rock

More sad white boy music that makes me feel things that I really don’t want to feel when listening to music most of the time. This is a great album that I just really don’t think I would ever be in the mood to want to hear very often. Sad vibes, especially considering what happened to Elliott Smith in general. It makes listening to this even more depressing. While I can appreciate this album for what it is, and realize how great it is, it’s just too sad for me to truly love. However, “Cupid’s Trick” absolutely rocks, and I also really liked “Pictures of Me” and “Rose Parade” the most. The album is technically great, just not my sad cup of tea. 4/5 as a whole, 3/5 for personal enjoyment.

Either/Or Similar to Figure 8, had I listened to this when I was between 16 and 21 I think I would have loved the morose sensitivity of it all, but it doesn’t quite hit the same in my mid 40s, despite it being a well crafted and obviously sincere album. He is good at what he does, although he does have a particular vocal, melodic and harmonic style, a kind of drone, which I do actually like, but it does start to feel very samey over the course of the album, even one one that’s only 37 minutes. Although I did quite enjoy the overall soporific feel, I did struggle to really pick any songs out, probably due to that sense of sameness. I can, however, see that in the right mood it might land better, and although I would listen again if I’m in the mood for some gloomy acoustic introspection, but there are other albums or artists I’d likely go to ahead of this. Think that makes a 3. 🥹🥹🥹 Playlist submission: Ballad of Big Nothing

I haven't listened to this simpering milquetoast since 'Figure of 8' some 18 months ago. As far as self-pitying balladeers go, he had a good knack for writing a tune, even at this point in his discography. This album is even more lo-fi than Figure of 8 - recorded on a 4-track, it sounds very much of the bedroom, just not in a sexy way. As a result, there are times when it has an amateur demo feel. To his credit, he keeps the album concise, and it proves to be a nice run of acoustic wallowing. It's a shame he went the way he did. But who hasn't thought of running themself through with a kitchen knife after an argument with the better half?

kind of bland but some chill songs with catchy beats

I wish this record had been around when I was 17. I don’t need it at this stage in my life in the way I would have done then. Smith is the taproot of the bedroom recorded, hyper authentic singer/songwriter wave still in progress. That said it’s more straightforward pop than his previous output. Ultimately this album works best played alone in your room after a very bad day. In any other context it’s honestly pretty lightweight. Bottom line: it’s either for you or it’s not and if it’s not it probably won’t impact much. If it is it will land like a thunderbolt. There isn’t much in between.

It was fine. Didn't like the drums, found them distracting. I get why it is a good album. Listened to the self titled after and this is certainly more fully realized.

I’ve never understood the draw of Elliott Smith. His music is fine but he has a cult status that eludes me. I have nothing against his music, it’s not bad, I guess it’s just not for me.

7.5/10, the sound of the album was quite nice and calm with the contradiction of the aggressive and sad vocals. Not my kind of indie music but still great other all Standouts: Ballad of Big Nothing, Rose Parade, Cupid's Trick, Say Yes

New artist for me, quite enjoyable

Eh. Didn't hate it didn't love it.

A nice bit of Indie / Singersongwriter angst. Right up my street

Album is okay. A little too slow and kind of depressing for me, but it’s clear he is talented. 3/5 Probably won’t listen again

I think this is what I wanted that Jeff Buckley album to sound like. Melancholy indie without being whiny, which is impressive. A lovely voice also.

***An ok album

Boring a bit, but not bad

American rock, seemed a bit more experimental. Didn't have anything that stuck out good or bad. 2.6

Can't quite put my finger on this one. I can hear some elements of Foo Fighters more mellow tracks and maybe some Ash. Anyway, it's not half bad. I can think of some times I could listen to this purposefully, but it is a bit samey.

This is good. Really well-crafted songs that ache with loneliness. Sounds like The Shins and was probably influential on that whole turn-of-the-century sound. Very mellow & a bit depressing. It’s a 3, but might be a four on another listen.

Great songwriting and I can see why this was so influential for a lot of people. I also dig the lo-fi and fairly simple production. However, while I did enjoy the album overall, it's just not really for me. I probably would have been a pretty big fan had I heard this earlier in my life.

It's quite creative. I had this combination of appreciation and malaise from listening to it. He seems quite talented as a song writer but I didn't really enjoy or connect with the songs.

Two listens failed to leave any sort of impression on me. While I did not dislike it, it was just there. When I think of it, I really have no recollection of a single track from our last Elliott Smith album so I suppose the mental association I’m forming with him as an artist is “forgettable”

I'm not listening to this shit again. I've listened to this album front to back a few times on atleast 6 separate occasions. I'm genuinely getting up to 18 listens of this thing. Once in the recommendation of a friend I generally regard as having great taste, once on a music Essentials list and the other 4 in my own time trying to "get it", this thing is everywhere in music circles. Posters in record shops, highly rated and frequently discussed on forums. Mentioned often by those whose opinions I value. Glazed by fuckwits who enjoy wanky sad shit like radiohead. This album is mid and I'm tired of everyone pretending it's not. Go listen to Giles Corey instead or figure 8. That's way better. 6/10

Nice. But of this modern acoustic folk style, I prefer Iron and Wine, Damian Rice, or a host of others. It's fine and pleasant, but not great. 3/5