8/10

In July of last year, a small independent documentary about the life of guitarist Elliott Smith was released, entitled 'Heaven Adores You'. While the film never got a full release, its soundtrack became one of the film's most talked about elements. Rather than just tape together a bunch of his best known hits, the soundtrack aimed to create a collection of his most important work, and at times give pretence to the musician's premature death.

Starting with a number of instrumental numbers, the 'Heaven Adores You' soundtrack almost tells a story all of its own. Lasting an impressive 76-minutes in length, the album manages to portray all the inspirations and influences Smith had throughout his brief career, and create a concise biopic of his musical legacy in one long play. Its mood throughout leaves you with a sense of hope that although he died in sudden circumstances, he forever lives on in his music.

A great introduction to the guitarist for those that have yet to hear him and a fantastic reminder to his fans about what kind of person he was. Impressive and diverse to the bitter end.