REVIEWS
To: Elliott
MUSIC
From: Portland
After a career spanning back to the '80s and a critically acclaimed solo career, Elliott Smith took his own life in October 2003. His music, especially his later work, predicted his tragic fate.
He was best known for st r u m m i n g, heartbreaking folk/pop tunes and his light and airy, yet dark voice. All this was in a catchy and melodious style that "told your sad story and made you feel like you were not alone,"says Anthony Davis, founder of Expanded Records, which produced the album.
Released more than two years
posthumously, this compilation serves as a poignant and diverse eulogy.
Some of the contributors lack originality in their tribute and simply imitate the sound and dynamics of the original Smith versions. (The Helio Sequence's "Satellite," or Amelia's "Between the Bars").
Others take a predictable route by making rockier versions (Eric Matthew's "Needle in the Hay," or To Live and Die in LA'S "King's Crossing"). Some of the more impressing covers come from folk eccentrics The Decemberists with their version
of "Clementine"
and Lifesavas'
"Happiness" is also
enjoyable.
Smith's original recordings.
Definitely check this album out, as well as
Joe Sibinski
MUSIC THE GREATEST BY CAT POWER
Cat Power, aka Chan Marshall, has made a name for herself over the last decade with her large catalog of singer-songwriter anthems that leave listeners in awe. *The Greatest* is her best work to date. From beginning to end, listeners are entranced by Chans low whisper backed by a strong rhythm section and enhancing piano.
In the title track, Chan and the piano are backed by a
the piano are balanced string section that adds a mysterious effect. "Living Proof" is one of the best tracks, with a hint of jazzy piano and an alt-country feel. With "After it All" and "Could We." Cat Power shows her upbeat side adding horns and background vocals to make another jazzy alt-country classic.
The standout track and my favorite is "Where Is My Love," which starts with Chan's beautiful voice with and has piano crawling in and out. It's a track you'll have in your head for days.
On The Greatest, listeners truly find the power in Cat Power. It's memorable songs that you'll play on repeat, until you feel like you really know Chan Marshall yourself.
★★★
Chris Brower