Reviews (page 9 of 13)
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
Love some good melancholy, but unfortunately, that's all this album had to offer. And it wasn't emotionally capturing enough to feel like iconic melancholy, the type you'd want to listen to the entire album for or yearn for. Decent chill music I guess though.
I enjoyed this but probably couldn’t tell you much about it today.
Similar to his other album on here, there is clearly something there but it just fails to come through. I think it is his vocals that seem very tepid and fail to ignite the songs. Put some oomph into it lad!
No ray of sunshine, this one. It's as melancholy as sad bastard music gets, but it's well done.
I've never actually listened to this album, and only a few songs here and there. I know this is foundational indie for a lot of folks, but it feels pretty dated today. I love Angeles and the covers it has spawned.
Sadboiiiiiiiiiiiiiii Sounds fine, but I'm not in the blue period atm
Makes me feel melancholy. Notable tracks: Between the Bars, Cupuds Trick. ⭐⭐⭐
Cult classic but overall it's just fine
Very melancholic. I liked it but it’s for very specific listening environments.
Very melodic and singing reminder me of the Beatles.
Quite liked the overall vibe but it didn't grab all of my attention. Would need to listen again and pay attention to the lyrics to comment further
Not my cup of tea. Gave it a few listens and found the mumbling vocals too grating. A bit meh!
indie rock ASMR. i can appreciate that the intimate atmosphere is that makes Elliott Smith's music what it is, but i could never really get into the vocal production where it feels like he's whispering into both of my ears at the same time. the songs are pretty great though.
Miles better than the first Elliott Smith album I reviewed (Figure 8), but still really not my thing. Sounds like it's recorded in buddy's bedroom, and it's just so mopey. Cheer up! Favorite songs: Ballad of Big Nothing, Cupids Trick, Pictures of Me, Angeles, Alameda Least favorite songs: Between the Bars, No Name No. 5 3/5
Love Elliot Smith, but I still find this album a tough listen. Much of the music sounds...quiet. No matter how loud you turn it up, it seems like it's being whispered at you. Which is charming for a song or two, but becomes a drag across 37 minutes. There are a few big exceptions, notably Ballad of Big Nothing. Of the whispery tracks, Angeles stands out for me.
I think this is proto-emo
I kinda liked this.
#560. Slightly better than the other Elliott Smith album on here, but still nothing particularly amazing. 3/5: fine
Reflective with a pretty interesting mix of sounds. Slow-paced with an almost Josh Radin/Cary Brothers vibe.
I really don’t know what to say about this album. It is mellow, evocative, and interesting. The guitar and quietly delivered vocals are perfect to set the stage for the emotion that plays out. The style is not really my cup of tea but I can appreciate the sound and rawness of the lyrics. I like songs that create narratives I can relate to and the Portland Oregon references of street names and festivals put me into the song. Favorite songs are Punch & Judy, Alameda, Say Yes, and No Name No. 5
This definitely has the sound of a 90s soundtrack. I am a fan of a lot 90s cinema, but apparently not a lot of the soundtracks stuck with me over the years as much as the movies do, in this case, Good Will Hunting. Does that make these bands easily forgettable? Overall this is a good album but it had its ups and downs for me. I felt it had a weak opener, but then finished with a good track, almost like a closing credits song. Favorite tracks, Between the Bars, Pictures of Me and Angeles which felt like the most familiar track.
Peaks and troughs
This was not nearly as depressing as I thought it would be, so I guess that's a good thing. 3
this music will forever be "good will hunting" for me. It's very average for me all around. Lyrics, vocals, instrumentals. I'm sure on a sad day I'll revisit
I am not sure what to make of this album. There’s some good songs in there like Say Yes and Between the Bats. I know it’s a famous album among the music community but I can’t find the magic. Yet.
Some great songs. 3.5
Lovely but failed to grab. I don't think I'm done with Elliott Smith as at certain points it is perfect to listen to but I've never reached for it.
It’s an ok album. I can tolerate it it if it’s in. Prolly won’t be the one to turn it on tho.
He did his thing. I need to listen to this in a more relaxed setting, it’s not really a gym album.
I found this album repetitive. The only track that stood out for me was Bottle Up and Explode!
Sure
Guitar was great, vocals didn’t seem well mixed, could barely hear lyrics over the music.
I'd never heard of Elliott Smith. I liked a few of the songs, he had a really nice voice. But this album was so bland. Everything blended into 1 long song 3 ⭐️
Elliott Smith was extremely popular on fanmixes in the early 2000s. Basically the Snow Patrol/Death Cab of its time. Nothing bad here, but it's so mellow I don't get much out of it. Dashboard Confessional-y but not emo enough to evoke any real emotion. You get the picture.
Morose music for morose times. Thanks and God bless, Elliott,
Cool
Found this quite enjoyable. At times it reminded me of Beck. Some good tunes on here
So many wonderful ingredients, but I’m not sure it all really comes together for me. I suspect it would need multiple listens I just don’t want to invest time into at this age.
This guy picked a vocal tone/flavor and stuck with it for the entire album. The way the vocals were filtered/processed made them all sound the same. Pretty mid, neither good or bad.
I could get into this
What a mixed bag. There are some songs I really enjoyed (like 2:45 AM) and others that were absolute slog fests. Pretty middle of the road album for me 2.5/5.
All a little too soft and gentle for me. I feel like this probably has more lyrical worth than I was able to get my teeth into. I had 'Figure 8' as one of my first albums and that album felt a little less soppy with more life in it.
Not bad, not great.
Well this will be upbeat. Somewhere between a depressed Jack Johnson and a slower Smashing Pumpkins. It’s a sensitive young man’s record for someone who never really liked Poison.
3/5
So sad
Agradable . Sonido acústico
Didn't finish. Too boring for today. Maybe later.
If you asked me if I thought this album was good or bad, I’d say “Either Or.” It’s just a basic soft rock album, not my thing.
6.5/10 Favorite Tracks: Speed Trials, Say Yes, Pictures of Me Least Favorite Track: No Name No. 5
it was fine, didn't engage me
It's a bit boring and his voice isn't my favorite but there's nothing WRONG with it.
Well-made and melancholy but it didn't really grab me. Favorites: Between the Bars Least Favorites: Speed Trials
I feel like kids who I thought were cool in middle school would’ve loved this album. Reminds me of getting bullied, so plus one point for that.
I have had "Between the Bars" on a playlist for a while. However, I don't pay attention to lyrics well and I thought it was about werewolves.
Not bad as a whole. got a little boring towards the middle with some high highs and mediocre lows. The stripped awayness of it all kind of detracted and made it sound a bit repetitive. Pretty chill, easy to throw into background and will revisit
good album to fall asleep to i guess
Great Album but can’t listen all the time
ok
This was conflicting for me; it's clear that he was foundational to what we think of with indie for the next decade, but the whole album was a bit softboy for me. Maybe it's because I can never understand what anyone is saying when they sing, and I'm missing some major lyrical depth. More people should sing so I can understand them
Singer songwriter - he’s very quiet and whisper sings sometimes
Not really my kind of thing. I get the importance and the influence but I'm too old for this kind of indie emo now
Some pretty parts, some slow parts. His songs have always sounded a bit plodding and rigid to me. It is definitely an identifiable sound.
Folky and indie
1997….this isn’t so bad after listening to a few heavy metal bands
Fine
I mean I can see why people like him. He is talented for sure and there are some songs I liked as well. But the style of singing and music is just a bit too depressing for me 3.5
I don’t get it. At least not as much as the effusive praise it’s shown by critics and the general public alike. I thought the themes of loss and fighting addiction would pull me in, and they do on a number of songs, but I never fell in love with it. Looking at the songs I liked it’s actually quite a few and may suggest I should rare this a bit higher but I don’t know… I just don’t think I’ll be revisiting this one much. Not all classics are classics to everyone. It’s a three out of five stars. Songs that I did like were “Alameda”, “Between the Bars”, “Pictures of Me”, “Punch and Judy”, “Angeles”, “Cupid’s Trick” and “2:45 a.m.”.
I enjoyed this one more than the other Elliott Smith albums that we have had.
Very 90s singer/songwriter sounding. You could pick out the influences from the bands of the same era, with the same vocal styles, and the same instrument styles. The album is fine, but doesn't tickle me in any way.
I feel about Elliott Smith about the same way as I do about like, an injured wild animal. Very sad and pretty and somehow poignant. I definitely see the appeal and appreciate the softness, the guitar playing, gentle vocals, the pure emotion... but it isn't really for me. Someone give this guy a hug and maybe like a pina colada or something. That said, I think this album deserves closer examination than I was able to give it with one listen and I would listen again. 7/10
i do like a nice bit of Elliott Smith but XO is his best album by a million miles, why've we had this and Figure 8 but not XO. GET A GRIP
The album cover told me everything I needed to know about Elliott. This is exactly the sound I expected and I thought I wouldn’t enjoy another tortured soul crying about their traumatic past. But, I liked it. The more I listened, the more I liked it. Either Or starts a bit “either-ish” and slowly evolves into “orrrr”, or maybe this is actually good? Elliott makes it his own and tells his own stories of overcoming past wrongdoings - EITHER his own OR others. There’s a sneaky hope in Elliott’s voice, guitar playing and vocals. This album is a pack of Marlborough Red’s and a bottle of Jack Daniel’s with a long time friend you wish was still alive. RIP Elliott.
Good
Great Gutes album muss aber nochmal gehört werden
Okee Dokee.... I knew this day would come. I mean it has come already but I suppose ... Anyhow! I honestly felt that this album was kind of boring. Everything about it has been done before and frankly, done better. This is not meant to be offensive or mean-spirited, just basically honest. I think music has always worked this way. There are always tons of bands out there that either swim around in local circles or rise above, with a few -- worthy or not! -- that rise to the top. I had never heard of Elliot Smith prior to today. I am not surprised after listening because he is one of those lost in the crowd bands. Sometimes we call bands "underrated" and for good reason, other times... they just don't rise above enough.
Favorite Track: Rose Parade
OK
Mello
I like this more than I thought I would. Simple songs
Good easy listening. Mix between Sufjan Stevens and a softer Nirvana. Would absolutely listen to again. Favorites were Rose Parade and 2:45AM.
Sad bastard music but it's done well for sure. Say yes and pictures of me were highlights. Overall a good album but one I'm unlikely to revisit
Not my cup of tea, but I enjoyed it.
Really nice sounding album, quite enjoyed this one. Nothing really stood out to me but it was a nice listen
honestly tuned it out, so couldn't of been earth shattering
Emo, indie. Nice, but not for me.
Pleasant enough, but feels a bit forgettable to me. All quite melancholy and wispy. Enjoyed 2:45am
3.4 Not totally up my alley but I can see how others would appreciate it
Mehh
I dunno, mostly just not what I was in the mood for
Lo-fi singer-songwriting. Sounds "nice" but it leaves me a bit cold. I really struggle to say much more about it. A bit samey and background music for me.
Decent for sure. Would listen again.
Hat etwas grunge-ges, dunkles aber auch singer-Songwriter vibes, ist aber irgendwie langweilig. Tröpfelt so dahin. Ich bin nicht hooked. Kann aber so im Hintergrund laufen. 3.5 Sterne.
bit boring
Either/Or is enjoyable, and probably better than Elliott Smith's other entries on this list. But there are a lot of elements missing that could bump this up to 4 stars or higher. The melodies are technically fine – maybe a little meandering and unrefined at times – but it's the vocal delivery that really sabotages the entire sound. Smith's singing is breathy and out of tune. It sounds like he isn't trying at all, and that's something unforgivable in my view. (Billie Eilish commits the same sin, and I'm not a fan of her voice either.) Many of the 5-star reviews here speak to Smith's emotional vocal delivery, but I don't hear emotion so much as a sense of depression and hopelessness. Even as someone with a history of depression, I really can't bring myself to enjoy the atmosphere Smith's singing creates. Especially during the summer. (Darn.) That being said, the instrumentation – particularly the guitar playing – is consistently excellent. It's simple, enjoyable, and smooth. Great for background listening. The album has ups and downs, switching effortlessly between the groovy, early-Radiohead-esque Ballad Of Big Nothing and the sweet acoustic ballad Between The Bars. So, unlike a huge proportion of the albums on this list, Either/Or actually feels like a complete album experience. And Say Yes is a solid closing track. 3/5 Key tracks: Between The Bars, Pictures Of Me, Say Yes
This is my first time listening to an Elliot Smith project. I'll start by saying that the album grew on me significantly between the first and second listen. Perhaps it would continue to grow on me if I listened more. That said, my first impressions generally remained the same: the best tracks are also the biggest, for a reason. "Say Yes"/"Between the Bars"/"Angeles" feature Elliot Smith at his best, with simple acoustic backing, singing within his range (and with nicely layered vocals), and providing short, catchy melodies to singer-songwriter lyrics. Fav Tracks - Speed Trials, Between the Bars, Say Yes, Angeles Least Fav - Cupids Trick
I always thought his stuff was typical downbeat singer songwriter stuff and never gave it a go. I really enjoyed some of these songs and will definitely check out more
I've listened to this album a lot because Tim loves it. I don't think it was great for a Monday morning, more a Sunday evening kind of vibe. I have enjoyed this album in the past but I felt like too many of the songs were similar to eachother. Elliott Smith makes me feel a bit sad. If I want to be listening to a great male song writer and feeling sad I'd go for Nick Drake.
Tried so many times to get into Elliott over the years. Some lovely melodies. But I'm really not into that kind of soft, whiny male vocal.
Amazing how this can be such powerful stuff sang in a very quiet way - he was an incredible talent troubled by his past which comes across in his music. A good listen.
I had no knowledge of Elliott Smith prior to this. I am sure that I had heard of him - but I had no idea of genre or sound. I liked it. Didn’t love it.
I'm always afraid that I'll become overly melancholy when I listen to Elliott Smith. So I have this subconscious hesitation. Maybe without that I'd really appreciate more? Not that I don't appreciate it.
Please use your inside voice when singing about depression. 5/10
I've heard about this one before. I was quite surprised to discover that such a relaxed sound belongs to one of the coolest dang album covers I've seen in my life - I was half expecting this album to be grunge or sludge metal going in. The first half is quite good, but those remaining tracks pump the brakes and blend together a little too much for my liking. I've listened to this one twice now, and I'm inclined to give it more listens down the road. It was a good time all around.
Pleasant Sunday morning listening without especially feeling I need to investigate further, and two on the list is surely one too many.
Liked this album. Quite soft and nice dinner party music 7/10
Entweder nöd schlecht oder nöd guet? Sowohl als auch wohl eher. Also neue albumsnamevorschlag ‚as well as‘. Akustisch isch das Album a mir verbigseglet wie es Segelflugzüg lokale vom Flugplatz. Ein modernes Segelflugzeug hat eine Gleitzahl von über 40. Das heisst, mit 1000 Metern Höhe kommt man 40 Kilometer weit. Hochleistungsflugzeuge weisen sogar Gleitzahlen von 60 und mehr auf. Segelflugzeuge fliegen mit einer Geschwindigkeit von über 100 km/h. Das „Benzin“ für Segelflieger ist also die Höhe, die sie abgleiten können. Die umweltfeundlichen „Tankstellen“ sind Aufwinde, in denen das Segelflugzeug aufsteigt. Darum 3 Propeller fürs segelflugzüg, demits in zuekunft na biz meh power hed
Inoffensive. Just not the kind of music I particularly enjoy.
3.5
Interesting music. Always like hearing something different.
Nice melodies and lyrics. Quiet. A bit underwhelming. I know he was very popular and the soundtrack of many peoples lives who grew up in the 90s but I was busy parenting then.
A good album but I think I liked Figure 8 better. Definitely giving me Brendan Benson and Pete Yorn vibes again, his higher falsetto vocals especially stood out this time. He changes up his chords and tempo across songs and yet it felt a little repetitive to me. Maybe the first four songs are more varied and then later songs start to repeat some of the earlier formulas. I'd say my favorite tracks were Ballad of Big Nothing, Pictures of Me, Rose Parade, and Say Yes. If a few of the tracks didn't appear in Good Will Hunting would he or this album be as revered? I still like him as an artist, but this album is around 3.5. And I'm going to distinguish my rating from Figure 8.
Over the years, several people have tried to get me to like Elliott Smith, most recently my teenage daughter. Lately I've taken to saying to her, "Stop trying to make Elliott Smith a thing!" Well, I tried to give this album a fair chance and what it primarily did was cement my prior perceptions. First, let's start with his whispery singing style. I think that's one of the big barriers to me enjoying it - I think his singing is just not that engaging. Then there's the somewhat amateurish recording style. Some view it as immediacy - we just had Nick Drake's Pink Moon, which sounded like you were sitting right next to him, but Drake's songwriting (and singing) were just so much more engaging than Smith. The drums have a very acoustic, non-processed sound, which could be good, but adds to the amateurish sound of the album. It would also be nice if he'd vary the tempo once in a while. I swear almost every song has the exact same tempo. Basically left me very bored. Positives: Decent lyrics through most of the tracks and I appreciate his guitar playing. Favorite Tracks: Alameda, Pictures of Me (Beatles-ish - genius.com says more Zombies-ish. Either way, 60s Brit sound), No Name No. 5 (dragged a little in the beginning, but I really like the open tuning chords, and picks up energy at around 2 minutes), Rose Parade (the first song that didn't have whispery singing), Cupid's Trick (pretty much the only rocking song on the album). After I told my daughter I was going to give this album a 3, she first called me an "opp" and then said "you would probably like XO better." I decided I should give it a chance - the girl has been very open minded re: music I like, so much so that she's apparently now a Rush fan and was blown away by seeing BEAT (King Crimson) in concert. So, I figured I should give it a chance since she recommended it (and it's not in the 1001). The recording quality and the songwriting are so much better than Either/Or. More varied styles (and instrumentation), better vocal quality (less whispery, although certainly similar). Favorite tracks: Sweet Adeline (opening track and my reaction was this song is better than pretty much anything on Either/Or), Waltz #2 (excellent song with powerful lyrics and a driving rhythm), Baby Britain (fun sounding song w/ shades of Penny Lane and good lyrics), Waltz #1 (I like the vibe), Amity, A Question Mark, Everybody Cares Everybody Understands (particularly the powerful ending). I'd give XO a 4, so too bad it's not in the 1001.
i've tried many times over the years to like elliott smith but i always find that, even though i like many individual songs and love a select few, listening to full albums mostly feels repetitive and sleepy
Indie folk, acoustic guitars, a bit of a dark mood, and all throughout this album. I've heard worse, but definitely nothing I would care to listen to again.
6.5/10. A little slow for me but pretty close to unplugged material I like. Track 1 and 2 are very strong
Always liked Elliot Smith without really being able to narrow down why. His sound feels stripped and reflective, as if a soundtrack to inner monologues.
Didn't hit the spot. 2.5/5
Good album
uii was passiert bei Alameda harmonisch, sehr geil! Das Album hat einen angenehmen chilligen vibe und ist trotzdem nicht ganz uninteressant. Es haut mich nicht komplett vom Hocker, aber ich mag es und habe es zu meiner Mediathek hinzugefügt;)
Millenial emo music that all sounds the same. Tough getting this album the day after Kendrick dropped GNX. 3/5
En weer speelt de vraag of we smaak of kwaliteit raten. Ook dit album zet ik zelf niet graag een tweede keer op. Maar het zit wel prima in elkaar. Deze keer laat ik mijn smaak zwaarder meespelen. Ik ben het album op een gegeven moment echt wel zat. Het is me teveel van hetzelfde, er zitten teveel lege pop-klanken in. Rond ik deze maar naar beneden af. Zie je ook gelijk het verschil met het vorige album. Alles is relatief.
Some great songs from the good will hunting soundtrack
His voice was pretty and I would say some old school vibes with it
90's coffee shop vibes. kinda bland.
Boring, good music but boring to me
A bit boring
Ahead of its time
Didn't mind it, right mood to listen but a bit dull
Not uninteresting. Kind of unusual for that period.
I realized that I like a few of Elliott's songs but not all of them, was really surprised and feeling sort of like a heretic.
aggressively fine. even with the bonus star for BETWEEN THE BARS it still runs a 3.
I liked this more than I expected, but not as much as I wanted. I think it will need another listen to actually appreciate it. It might be much more interesting, or it may turn out to be utterly boring.
its alright not bad not the worst i give it 3 out 5 because dont really like sad songs. i like the beat the voice and thats it really.
3- Stars (7/15)
Music kinda catchy - but some missed explicit
Low key and never really hits any highs
Thankfully it’s only 37 minutes then I was able to move on…
A little to monotone for me
This is an ok album that transports emotions but the singing style and the instrumentation isn't as interesting on album length. Yet another entry on this list of an album that is good in principle but nothing I need to listen to before I die.
Beautiful bittersweet acoustic songs that I find a bit too sad.
Same as the other one, sad and sleepy. 3/5
Nice to have in the background. Many songs felt like they could be in a 2000s teen rom com
Lovely, soothing voice. I’m between a 3 and a 4, but honestly a lot of the songs didn’t do much for me. Favorites: “Between The Bars”, “Pictures Of Me”, “Angeles”, “Cupid’s Trick”
Not quite in a low enough state to really immerse myself in Elliott Smith rn.
“If I’m gonna be sad, y’all gonna be sad.”
I enjoyed a few songs, but ultimately grew very tired of his singing style. The melodies and background music to his songs were enjoyable and for the most songs I didn’t know where one ended and the next started. I think his voice style of whisper singing just isn’t for me.
this is definitely end of the night sadness album
Good one but a bit mellow. Nice sound though
Very mellow easy listening.
Nice and chill, probably a 3.5
Lovely singer-songwriter album with smart lyrics. “Rose Parade” was a standout track for me. And when Elliott Smith injects more rock into his music — like on “Cupid’s Trick” — the result is pretty potent. I’d love to hear more rock-leaning stuff from him. I could see myself really liking this album with more listens.
3.5
The Superbowl for depressed people who spend lots of time on the internet. It’s alright, there’s instances of good storytelling, a clear ability to inject his personality into the songs. I think this is sadly a case of the albums aura being heightened by the context of its artist. Soft 3
I like the instrumentation and the lyrics were interesting.
An interesting album - completely indifferent to some tracks yet some really leapt out. Standouts include Ballad of Big Nothing, Rose Parade and Cupid's Trick. Worth mentioning that I can definitely hear his influence in others - reminds me of Flyte in places and Jeffrey Lewis in others. Will check out his other albums. 6/10.
Whisper rock. Only liked a few tracks.
1st time listening 7/10
pretty chill but i also might have fallen asleep
It's pleasant but didn't grab my attention
Sounds very airy, could be the drum sound with the cymbals. Nice not as down as I thought it was going to be
Speed Trials 3.3 Alameda 3.6 Ballad of Big Nothing 3.5 Between the Bars 3.3 Pictures of Me 3.4 No Name No. 5 3.2 Rose Parade 3.4 Punch and Judy 3.2 Angeles 3 Cupid's Trick 3.3 2:45 AM 3.2 Say Yes 3.1 Score: 3.291666667
Not the biggest fan of the whisper singing but the album started out great, the songs near the end all kinda blended together. A little too melancholic unless you’re in the mood
Not much of a fan of the softer end of his range. Somewhat enjoyed the album overall though.
I think I like the idea of Elliott Smith more than the reality. When he gets it right it's perfect (Behind The Bars, Say Yes and especially Angeles) but the whole record doesn't really hit those heights for me.
Couldn't take all of the sad yesterday. It was an okay album.
Casual listening was nice background music for work
All I could hear is Good Will Hunting..
Fine for background music but kinda forgettable.
An artist I’ve never really explored properly although a friend bought me XO on vinyl a few years ago in an attempt to get me into him. This was good but not great, I’d need to listen again to see if anything hits me on second play, I feel like I want to like it
Started well but not quite the undiscovered gem I was hoping for. Undiscovered by me, that is, I hadn't heard of him. Some nice Beatles, Blur, Radiohead stuff going on with a bit of his native USA folk. Sorry that he died so young. But it didn't stand out to me.
Kinda boring but I liked some songs.
Good 90's emo/alternative album, but I expected much more given how popular this album is.
I can understand why people like this and why it’s still a well-loved album. I think had I tried listening to this 20 years ago, I would’ve liked it, but as it stands now, I’m not really into this singer songwriter thing very much anymore.
It's alright. It gets a bit repetitive at times.
Didn't get the hype to be honest
Meh. 90s whine-rock.