XO cover

XO

Elliott Smith · 1998

44 min · 14 tracks · indie pop · indie rock · indie folk

A delicate tapestry of introspective lyrics woven through lush melodies and haunting harmonies.

Why this album works

Best for
steady, consistent energy levels introspective and reflective moments delicate melodic explorations
Context
Released on August 25, 1998, 'XO' marked Elliott Smith's major label debut, following his critically acclaimed album 'Either/Or'. This transition to DreamWorks Records came at a pivotal moment, as Smith sought to reach a broader audience while maintaining his signature intimate sound.
If you like
indie pop, indie rock, indie folk

XO is an album by Elliott Smith, released in 1998. A delicate tapestry of introspective lyrics woven through lush melodies and haunting harmonies. 'XO' received widespread critical acclaim, with publications like Rolling Stone praising its emotional depth, and it peaked at number 70 on the Billboard 200. The album is often credited with influencing the indie rock scene of the late '90s and early 2000s, helping to bridge mainstream and underground music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does XO sound like?

A delicate tapestry of introspective lyrics woven through lush melodies and haunting harmonies. Rooted in indie pop and indie rock.

What makes XO by Elliott Smith notable?

'XO' received widespread critical acclaim, with publications like Rolling Stone praising its emotional depth, and it peaked at number 70 on the Billboard 200. The album is often credited with influencing the indie rock scene of the late '90s and early 2000s, helping to bridge mainstream and underground music. Released on August 25, 1998, 'XO' marked Elliott Smith's major label debut, following his critically acclaimed album 'Either/Or'. This transition to DreamWorks Records came at a pivotal moment, as Smith sought to reach a broader audience while maintaining his signature intimate sound.

Who is XO for?

XO works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, introspective and reflective moments and delicate melodic explorations.

How many songs are on XO?

XO has 14 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Tracklist

14 tracks·44:44

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Sweet Adeline 3:15
  • 2 Tomorrow Tomorrow 3:07
  • 3 Waltz #2 (XO) Standout 4:40
  • 4 Baby Britain Standout 3:13
  • 5 Pitseleh 3:22
  • 6 Independence Day Standout 3:04
  • 7 Bled White 3:22
  • 8 Waltz #1 3:22
  • 9 Amity 2:20
  • 10 Oh Well, Okay 2:33
  • 11 Bottle Up and Explode! 2:58
  • 12 A Question Mark 2:41
  • 13 Everybody Cares, Everybody Understands 4:25
  • 14 I Didn't Understand 2:17

Release Date

August 25, 1998

Genre

indie folk, indie pop, indie rock

More albums in indie folk

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

44 min 44 sec