Album Info
| Artist: | Elliott Smith |
| Album: | Roman Candle |
| Released: | USA & Canada, 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Roman Candle | |
| A2 | Condor Ave | |
| A3 | No Name #1 | |
| A4 | No Name #2 | |
| A5 | No Name #3 | |
| B1 | Drive All Over Town | |
| B2 | No Name #4 | |
| B3 | Last Call | |
| B4 | Kiwi Maddog 20/20 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Elliott Smith's debut album, "Roman Candle," was released on July 21, 1994, and it marked the beginning of a remarkable journey for the singer-songwriter. This album is often celebrated for its raw emotional honesty and lo-fi production, characteristics that would come to define much of Smith's work. Recorded in his home studio, the album features a collection of songs that showcase Smith's intricate guitar work and poignant lyrics, setting the stage for his future acclaim.
"Roman Candle" is a deeply personal album, with Smith drawing from his own experiences and emotions. The songs are imbued with a sense of vulnerability that resonates with listeners. Tracks like "Roman Candle" and "No Name #3" highlight his ability to convey complex feelings with simplicity and grace. The album's sound is characterized by its stripped-down arrangements, allowing Smith's voice and lyrics to take center stage. This lo-fi aesthetic was somewhat of a departure from the polished productions of the early '90s, and it helped to establish a new wave of indie music that prioritized authenticity over commercial appeal.
Critically, "Roman Candle" received a warm reception, with many reviewers praising Smith's songwriting and unique sound. Publications like Pitchfork and AllMusic have lauded the album for its emotional depth and lyrical prowess. In particular, Pitchfork noted that Smith's ability to capture the nuances of heartbreak and longing was unparalleled, making the album a standout in the indie rock genre. While it didn't achieve massive commercial success upon its release, it has since gained a cult following and is often cited as a significant influence on subsequent generations of musicians.
One of the standout tracks, "Needle in the Hay," has become emblematic of Smith's style, featuring haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. This song, along with others from the album, showcases his knack for storytelling, painting vivid pictures of personal struggles and emotional turmoil. The rawness of the production adds to the intimacy of the listening experience, making it feel as though Smith is sharing his innermost thoughts directly with the listener.
Interestingly, "Roman Candle" was recorded in a relatively short amount of time, with Smith utilizing a four-track recorder to capture his ideas. This DIY approach not only reflects the indie spirit of the time but also highlights Smith's talent as a multi-instrumentalist. He played most of the instruments on the album himself, which adds to the personal touch of the project. The album's production style has since been embraced by many artists in the indie scene, further solidifying its cultural significance.
In terms of awards, while "Roman Candle" did not receive any major nominations at the time of its release, Elliott Smith would go on to achieve significant recognition in the years that followed, including two Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song for his work on the soundtracks of "Good Will Hunting" and "The Royal Tenenbaums." This later success has helped to shine a light back on his earlier work, including "Roman Candle," which is now often viewed as a foundational piece of his discography.
Listening to "Roman Candle" today, it’s easy to see why it has endured over the years. The album captures a moment in time and a feeling that many can relate to, making it a timeless piece of art. Elliott Smith's ability to articulate the complexities of human emotion through his music is a gift that continues to resonate with fans old and new. If you haven't yet explored this album, I highly recommend giving it a listen. It’s a beautiful introduction to the world of Elliott Smith and a poignant reminder of the power of music to connect us through shared experiences.
