Review
Elliott Smith's "XO," released in 1998, is a masterclass in melancholic beauty. This fourth studio album marks Smith's transition from the lo-fi indie charm of his earlier works to a more polished, yet deeply introspective sound. Layered with lush arrangements and delicate instrumentation, "XO" blends influences from The Beatles to folk seamlessly, showing off Smith's ability to create haunting melodies and poignant lyrics. Tracks like "Waltz #2 (XO)" and "Baby Britain" exhibit his knack for crafting memorable hooks while maintaining an undercurrent of sadness. The production is more complex compared to his previous albums, featuring richer orchestration and multi-track harmonies. Despite the glossy finish, Smith's raw, emotional core remains unscathed, making "XO" an album that resonates with both heart and mind. It's a deeply personal journey wrapped in exquisite musicality, solidifying Smith's legacy as a master singer-songwriter.
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Info
"XO" is the fourth studio album by American singer-songwriter Elliott Smith, released on August 25, 1998, in the United States and on September 21, 1998, in the United Kingdom. This album marked Smith's major-label debut and was released under DreamWorks Records. "XO" was recorded at several studios, including Sunset Sound Recorders, Capitol Studios, and Sonora Studios. The album was co-produced by Elliott Smith himself, along with Rob Schnapf and Tom Rothrock. In terms of chart performance, "XO" reached its highest position in the US on the Billboard 200 at No. 104, while in the UK, it peaked at No. 194 on the UK Albums Chart. The album is noted for its intricate production and the complexity of its arrangements, which represented a departure from Smith's earlier, more stripped-down sound.
Tracklisting
- Sweet Adeline
- Tomorrow Tomorrow
- Waltz #2 (XO)
- Baby Britain
- Pitseleh
- Independence Day
- Bled White
- Waltz #1
- Amity
- Oh Well, OK
- Bottle Up And Explode!
- A Question Mark
- Everybody Cares, Everybody Understands
- I Didn't Understand