I love Elliott Smith — I can never pick a favorite song of his, or even a favorite album, and honestly I get kind of emotional trying to talk about his music (I have actually tried writing this a couple of times over the last few months and given up). I didn’t know him personally, but I have to say that I really miss him and I wish he were still in the world. I listen to his music all the time and I bought New Moon the day it came out (the double record for the house and the CDs for the car — yeah, I know). And in both Los Angeles and Portland, it makes me happy to walk or drive past the places he mentioned in songs — they pop into my head all the time.

And now his friend, photographer and video-maker Autumn de Wilde, has created a stunning, lush book of her photographs, paired with candid interviews from friends and fellow musicians. I was lucky enough to get a copy as soon as it came out, and read it straight through, cover to cover, without putting it down for a second. It even has a CD of unreleased songs tucked into it, too. It’s an absolutely gorgeous book and a real treasure.

And tomorrow night is her reading at Powell’s, which I’m so looking forward to. From the store write-up:

This month, the Basil Hallward Gallery is hosting the book release party for Autumn de Wilde’s book of local legend Elliott Smith. As a friend and photographer, de Wilde’s work captures an intimacy, candor, and a remarkable sense of connection with the beloved musician.

If you go:

Elliott Smith book event with Autumn de Wilde
Powell’s, 1005 W. Burnside, Portland
Thursday, January 3 at 6:30