Various Artists To: Elliott From: Portland [Expunged; 2006] Reviewer: Mat Arnold [KNDS DJ]

It’s been a few years now since Elliott Smith left us, but his work continues to maintain an almost militant fan base and inspire musicians across the globe. If you are reading this and have never heard of Mr. Smith, I’ll try and fill you in. Elliott was an indie/folk-rock singer songwriter who hailed from Portland, OR. His work is usually noted for being dark, honest, and lyrical. If you appreciate such music, I would highly suggest that you check out his work. That said, under the flag of independent label Expunged Records many notable bands from the Portland scene have rallied to put together a tribute album.

The album features tracks from prominent indie artists such as The Decembrists, The Helio Sequence, Dolorean, as well as Sean Crogan, Smith’s friend and roommate, playing a previously unrealesed track, “High Times”. For Elliott fans, the covers stay pretty traditional exceptions including a hip-hop rendition of “Happiness” by Lifesavas and “Ballad of Big Nothing” sung with trashy, punk female vocals a la The Thermals. At the end of the day I still prefer the originals to any of these covers, but it’s nice to hear artists’ take on some classic Elliott Smith tunes. Ten percent of profits will also go to Elliott’s charity for abused children. RIP Elliot.