(Photo Credit: Raymond Flotat)
In a cover of “Pictures of Me,” Amanda Palmer brings new life and attention to one of her favorite songs. The song, released today and featured below, comes off of the new album Say Yes! A Tribute to Elliott Smith, which comes out October 14. The album also includes Elliott Smith covers by Julien Baker, Juliana Hatfield and Tomo Nakayama.
Palmer recalls having been influenced by Smith’s songwriting when she was young.
“I’ve been an admirer and constant listener of Elliott’s whole catalogue since someone first gave me XO in the 90s,” said Palmer in a statement. “It’s just impossible to get bored of listening to his songwriting, which is so sonically quiet yet emotionally loud.”
Smith’s career ended tragically with his untimely death in 2003, at the age of 34. The album is a celebration of Smith’s legacy. “I so wish Elliott was around to keep sharing his genius. The best we can do now is just keep the songs and his soul in circulation,” Palmer shared.
The single released today, “Pictures of Me,” highlights what Smith was known for doing best – putting his personal struggle on display for the listener to share in. Palmer’s cover is intimately simple, recording only her voice and piano.
Recently, Palmer shared her plans release a new full-length album titled Piano Is Evil, featuring re-worked versions of the 13 songs from her 2012 album Theatre Is Evil.
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