Smith, Elliott
XO
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

2024 2LP 180gm Deluxe limited edition #2324, brown vinyl in gatefold jacket. Include 9 bonus tracks "How To Take a Fall," "The Enemy Is You," and “Miss Misery”. "XO" is the fourth studio album by American singer-songwriter Elliott Smith, released on August 25, 1998. It was Smith's first solo release on a major label, DreamWorks Records. The album marked a shift from his earlier, more minimalistic work, incorporating richer and more complex instrumentation, including strings and layered harmonies. Despite the more polished production, Smith maintained his signature introspective and emotionally charged songwriting style. Songs like "Waltz #2 (XO)" and "Sweet Adeline" showcase his ability to blend melancholy themes with melodic and memorable compositions.

The album received critical acclaim for its intricate arrangements and Smith's poignant lyrical content, further establishing him as a significant figure in indie and alternative music. "XO" explores themes of love, loss, and introspection, with Smith's delicate vocal delivery and deft guitar work at the forefront. The record is often noted for its Beatlesque influences, with tracks like "Baby Britain" drawing comparisons to the classic pop sensibilities of the legendary band. Overall, "XO" stands as a testament to Elliott Smith's artistry and his skill in crafting deeply personal yet universally relatable music.