Elliott Smith

Figure 8

First released2000

Figure 8, Elliott Smith's fifth studio album released in 2000, was recorded primarily at Craig Montoya's home studio in Portland, Oregon, as well as at other locations including sessions in Los Angeles. The album was produced by Elliott Smith himself alongside Rob Schnapf and Tom Rothrock, who had previously collaborated with Smith on XO. Smith employed his characteristic multi-tracked vocal and instrumental approach, layering numerous guitars and keyboards to create dense, intricate arrangements that marked an evolution from his earlier work. The recording process involved Smith performing most of the instruments himself, maintaining creative control while experimenting with more polished production techniques compared to his previous albums. The album represented Smith's first major-label release for DreamWorks Records, reflecting both artistic ambition and increased production resources compared to his earlier independent and Kill Rock Stars releases.