Steven Paul Smith, more popularly known as Elliott Smith (pictured above), was an indie artist who peaked in fame during the 1990s. Smith is best known for his husky vocals and talent on the guitar, though he played several instruments when he was alive (courtesy of Creative Commons).
If it looks like this year has a lonely Valentine’s Day in store, there’s nothing better to do than sit in the dark and think about being single to the lyrical, instrumental genius of Elliott Smith’s Either/Or. Released in 1997, this album is timeless in the loneliness it expresses.
Smith’s voice is low and comforting, promising listeners that he’ll sit with them a while, a companion in melancholy wherever they go.
One particularly beautiful and mournful song on this album is “Between the Bars.” This track is about drinking to forget past and future problems and highlights the pessimistic view Smith has on love.
Not all songs on the record are about the uselessness of relationships, though. The track “Say Yes” describes the hope in finding someone to spend all of life with. This is reassuring, even if that time hasn’t quite come for Smith’s listeners yet.
This Valentine’s Day, don’t be ashamed to be lonely or to feel sorry for yourself. Sometimes throwing a pity party and seeking comfort in a musician’s voice is enough of a date for the day.