Elliott Smith

On July 20, 1996, Elliott Smith performed a full set at the Westbeth Theatre in New York City, a pivotal moment shortly after the release of his self-titled album, "Elliott Smith." This album, which came out in 1995, marked a significant step in Smith's career, transitioning him from the indie rock band Heatmiser to a solo artist with a burgeoning following. During this period, Smith's songwriting was blossoming, displaying a raw emotional depth and haunting lyrical quality that would come to define his work. Interesting fact: he often recorded in a home studio environment, which contributed to the intimate sound of his early performances, as heard in this live recording. The NYC audience likely witnessed the nascent stages of his artistry, setting the groundwork for his later, more complex works.

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