Elliott Smith has been a patron saint of the indie scene since his days helming Portland heroes Heatmiser. As a solo artist, Smith led a revolution of home four-trackers, from Beck to Cat Power, out of the bedroom and into the studio, where Smith's fondness for Beatlesque melody led to some of the most beautifully orchestrated pop of the last decade. "From a Basement on the Hill" is Smith's final recording and finds Smith returning to an edgier, guitar-driven sound,

alongside his trademark heart-rending balladry. Richard Cromelin of the LA Times said, "This is prime Smith, with the kind of meticulous, evocative lyric, bittersweet melody and intimate delivery that made him one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation."