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THE REVIEW
Here is the “classic” by Elliott Smith, the work that brings together all the orphans of the Portland storyteller. “Either/or” perfectly captures the indie Elliott Smith, just as the posthumous, magnificent “From a Basement on the Hill” will do with the mature one. Some of the tracks here resume the thread of previous works, further refining his writing. The usual sick melodies aren't missing, irreproducible combinations of beauty and brutality. “Cupid’s Trick” is magnificent in this regard. But Elliott goes beyond. “Angeles”, “Speed Trials”, and “Alameda” enchant with dissonant melodic twists. “Angeles” in particular is fabulous, clinging as it is to a very thin emotional thread while a suggestive keyboard, sharp guitar arpeggios, and Elliott's hypnotic voice forge a disorienting atmosphere.
The core of “Either/or” however, consists of those episodes in which the roughness of previous albums is smoothed out, to forge some simply perfect pop tracks. “Ballad of Big Nothing” and “Pictures of Me” are quintessential in embedding Cobain's anthemic momentum into the gentle melodies of Nick Drake, while the sighs of “Say Yes” stage one of the most poignant love songs of the 90s. “Between the Bars” is a nighttime ride among glass shards and broken promises, whereas “Punch and Judy” paints a faint watercolor streaked by a delightful organ (it's the piece Stuart Murdoch never wrote).
“Either/or” is also the most famous album of our hero. Gus Van Sant fell in love with it and included almost half of the tracks on these grooves in one of his masterpieces, “Good Will Hunting”. It's certainly no coincidence if you remember that story. Listening to these twelve tracks is the emotional equivalent of a night swim in the murky waters of a river. One faces the ghosts of existence, torments, and possible ways out, amidst the usual Smithian imagery of decaying cities, nocturnal drinks, and broken hearts. Without ever knowing if you'll make it to the other shore.
Chronicles from the “great nothing”, indeed.
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Summary by Bot
The review praises 'Either/or' as Elliott Smith's classic indie album, highlighting its blend of haunting melodies and refined songwriting. Key tracks like 'Angeles' and 'Say Yes' showcase emotional depth and musical complexity. The album’s connection with the film 'Good Will Hunting' enhances its cultural impact. Overall, it is celebrated as a timeless, poignant work that captures the essence of Smith’s storytelling.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Elliott Smith
Elliott Smith (1969–2003) was an American singer-songwriter known for intimate, guitar-driven songs and a style often compared to Nick Drake. He gained wider attention after “Miss Misery,” written for Good Will Hunting, received an Academy Award nomination. His catalog spans lo-fi acoustic recordings and later, more elaborate arrangements; a major posthumous release is From a Basement on the Hill.11 Reviews
