From a Basement on the Hill - Elliott Smith Album Review

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Album Review

Authentic artists such as Mr. Elliot Smith are as good a gauge to the depth and integrity of the music industry, as the declining amphibian population is to the state of our ponds, lakes and rivers; with them both being the first to suffer from a poor state of affairs The fact that Elliot has often been overlooked in the past in favour of the more marketable mellow outfits such as Snow Patrol and Travis; is an indictment on the nation's inability to look passed the posters. This offering sprinkles together the ethereal touch of Aqualung, with the uplifting nature and tenderness of The Finn Brothers, as well as adding enough bubbly 60's flower pop to get your body swaying. The mournfully melodic acoustic burner; 'Let's get lost' encapsulates the poignancy and depth of Elliot, while the zapping 'Shooting Star' demonstrates that he possessed energy and diversity right until the end. Ah ha, I hear you mutter; why has it taken so long to refer to the fact the Elliot Smith passed away in October 2003? Maybe, it is the fact that his musical presence is still prominent and inspiring enough to leave you focusing on the positives.

And the winner for the boldest and most philosophical song title of the year is???... Wait for it..... Mr. Elliot Smith with 'A distorted reality is now a necessity to be free"! This track will have you floating so far down stream that by the end of it; you'll wind up on a dolphin in the Pacific. Elliot, with help in places from some soft backing vocals and cushioning instrumentals has produced a convention defying, 15 track final offering that will please music lovers who want depth and passion in their music.

David Adair