Valentine’s Day is a made up holiday designed to boost retail sales of jewelry, candy, stationary, and any other foolish thing people may want that has a heart on it. I think we can all agree there. It’s ridiculous, old-fashioned, and all of the good tv shows are forced to do stupid Valentine’s episodes that generally suck. However, it’s also a great time for romance and celebration of love, so it can’t be all bad. If you’re looking to skip buying gifts and just want to spend a quiet night in, enjoying the company of that special someone, this is for you.
One of the worst things about this holiday is the music. It’s always the same. As much as I love Eric Clapton, I don’t need to hear “Wonderful Tonight” a bajillion times in the span of one week. To make at least that aspect of the day a bit easier, I’ve designed a ten-song playlist of great romantic songs by bands that you might actually enjoy hearing.

“First Day Of My Life” by Bright Eyes

“Rest Your Eyes” by Azure Ray

“I’m The Man Who Loves You” by Wilco

“O Valencia” by The Decemberists

“The Temptation Of Adam” by Josh Ritter

“Remember Last Time” by Avi Buffalo

“Emmylou” by First Aid Kit

“(Do You Wanna) Come Walk With Me” by Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan

“Vomit” by Girls

“Crown Of Love” by Arcade Fire