Roman Candle, Elliott Smith’s debut album, released on July 14, 1994, is a raw and intimate introduction to one of the most beloved and emotionally evocative singer-songwriters of his generation. Recorded in the privacy of a basement on a four-track recorder, the album feels like a deeply personal diary, filled with whispered confessions and haunting melodies.

The nine tracks on Roman Candle are minimalist and stripped-down, with Smith’s delicate fingerpicked guitar and softly yearning vocals taking center stage. Songs like the title track and “No Name #1” showcase his ability to craft deeply affecting music with a sparse yet emotionally potent approach. The lyrics, laden with vulnerability and a quiet intensity, explore themes of isolation, longing, and resilience in the face of pain.

The album's lo-fi production enhances its raw authenticity, allowing listeners to feel as though they are peering into Smith's innermost thoughts. While Roman Candle is unpolished compared to his later works, it provides a glimpse of the profound artistry and emotional depth that would define his career.

Praised for its stark beauty and poignant songwriting, Roman Candle is a stunning debut that laid the foundation for Elliott Smith's enduring legacy as a master of melancholy and introspection.

Tracklist:

Side A:
A1. Roman Candle
A2. Condor Ave
A3. No Name #1
A4. No Name #2
A5. No Name #3

Side B:
B1. Drive All Over Town
B2. No Name #4
B3. Last Call
B4. Kiwi Maddog 20/20