FIVE albums to be single to

Valentine’s Day is enough of a headache for those of us in relationships. But when you’re single, it can be absolutely crushing. And sometimes the most satisfying thing to do is sit and wallow in your emotions with some Breyers and just the right soundtrack.

The Smiths – The Queen is Dead

Saying the Smiths are depressing is like saying that oranges are orange. At the same time, you’d be remiss to not devote some of your sobbing to “Never Had No One Ever” or the sublime “I Know It’s Over” (Gosh, I really hope Sublime never covered “I Know It’s Over”).

Red House Painters – Down Colorful Hill

Mark Kozelek’s first, and among his best. You’re already weeping over failed romance, may as well weep over losing your friends and your entire youth while you’re at it.

Songs: Ohia – Axxess & Ace

Jason Molina has never been a cheery man, and this is perhaps the record that best proves it. This  one collection of alt-country gems goes out to those who find themselves alone on Valentine’s Day through their own fault. “Love leaves its abuser,” as the man sings.

Superchunk – Foolish

There’s a reason sensitive college nerds all got “Driveway to Driveway” tattoos in the ’90s: Foolish is exquisitely heartbreaking from beginning to end.

This album mostly concerns singer Mac McCaughan’s split with bassist Laura Ballance – so if you think your breakup was painful, keep in mind that for years, Ballance had to perform these songs with her monitors turned off or away so that she couldn’t hear the lyrics.

Frank Sinatra – In the Wee Small Hours

The corniest pick here, but if Valentine’s Day isn’t the perfect day for corny melodrama and tear-stained LP jackets, nothing is (aside obviously from Saskatchewan Day). Make sure to have a glass of scotch at the ready so you’ll have something to clutch as you stand at your window and stare out at couples in love strolling by, or at nothing at all.

Mason Pitzel
Production Manager