Elliott Smith

In January 2000, Elliott Smith was preparing to release his fourth studio album, "Figure 8," which came out later that spring. The live performance of "Bottle Up and Explode!" during the Jon Brion Show showcases Smith's evolving sound as he transitioned into a more elaborate production style compared to his earlier, more minimalistic work. This period marked a significant moment in his career, as his musical complexity began to gain wider recognition, partly due to his increasing popularity following the critical success of his previous album, "Either/Or." Notably, this performance reflects the collaboration between Smith and producer Jon Brion, who played a key role in shaping the sound of "Figure 8." The song itself carries themes common in Smith's work, exploring emotional depth and introspection, which further endeared him to his growing fanbase.

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