Elliott Smith - An Introduction To... Elliott Smith (Domino)
The suicide of Elliott Smith in 2003 robbed this generation of one of its finest singer-songwriters. Seven years on, this Domino-released compilation can hardly be described as a cynical exploitation but more a celebration of Smith's prodigious talents.

The fourteen tracks here are compiled from Smith's seven studio albums, from his early independent releases ('Roman Candle', 'Elliott Smith') to the flirtations with the mainstream (the Oscar-nominated 'Miss Misery' from the film 'Good Will Hunting' and the Dreamworks-released 'XO' and 'Figure Eight') that immediately preceded his death. For those familiar with his output, 'An Introduction To...' will serve as a reminder of Smith's impressive body of work that seldom dipped in quality, but it's those who missed Smith first time around who are the most probable target audience for this compilation.

Whilst innovation might not have been high on Smith's agenda, what he did with great expertise was write consistently accomplished songs, composed with much sensitivity, empathy and heart, best demonstrated by the likes of 'Waltz #2' and 'Twilight'.

He may never have been able to successfully overcome his demons (depression and drug addiction), but Smith bequeathed a terrific body of work, which, thanks to Domino, we're now able to reappraise.
KW

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