Elliott Smith-Elliott Smith
 

Elliott Smith's death was one of the most tragic things to happen to music. He was one of the most personal and effective songwriters out there. He still is. Not many people can match the emotional impact he brings to his music. This album is his best album. This is him at his most personal and most effective. All his other albums were great, but none can match up to this one. Every song is a treasure, and a good representation of what Elliott Smith was capable of.

The songs explore a wide variety of topics. The first song, Needle In TheHay, is a song about an addict. In fact, it could very well be the best song about drug addiction ever written. Some people may recognize it from it's perfect usage in The Royal Tenenbaums. Others may have never heard it. Well, to the people who haven't heard it, I suggest you listen to it. It is one of the most powerful songs you're ever going to hear. If you can't find it anywhere, then you could just watch The Royal Tenenbaums. Great movie. Or better yet, buy this album.

Needle In The Hay is, without a doubt, the song that will hit people the hardest. But every song should strike some sort of chord with the listener. Especially knowing that Elliott Smith has passed away makes it an even more emotional experience. One of the best songs on the album would have to be St. Ides Heaven. It's a catchy song, with the personal lyircs Elliott Smith is known for. It's a definite standout, and one of the many highlights.

Southern Belle contains the best guitar work on the album. Not only was Elliott Smith a great songwriter, he was also a fine guitar player. And this song proves that. His guitar playing is never showy, though. It's always just right for the songs. Alphabet Town makes effective use of the harmonica, and is another standout on the album. But really, there is no point in pointing out standout tracks when the album flows so well, and should be listened to in its entirety.

This album defines lo-fi and alternative folk (or whatever you want to call it). This album also defines Elliott Smith. Like I said earlier, this is him at his most honest and personal. If you are new to Elliott Smith, it is highly reccomended you start with this album. It is one of the best you're ever going to hear, and that is the absolute truth. Every one of his albums should be checked out, but this is his best effort by far. And after the album is done, it will break your heart that the world lost such a genius.

You will probably become Sleepy Jack's favorite n00b. Good review though. :)

You're my favorite noob.

OH GOD, it's my favorite by him. Needle In The Hay is a great song, but I don't think it's the strongest.. I've taken a liking to the end of the album actually. Altogether its simple but it speaks loads.

St. Ides Heaven is my favorite off the album.

Same here also one my fav ES songs in general

So many good songs, too hard to pick. I really like The Biggest Lie, though.

Yeah. Maybe I went out on a limb by saying it's the strongest. But it's definitely one of them. The end of the album is great.

Hahaha. Awesome.

I'll admit that the song gets better with every listen, though. http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/aww.gif
But yea, stick around.