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.