Valentine

Jonathan Bree's 'Valentine' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love that defies traditional romantic norms. The song opens with the repetitive and almost hypnotic chant of 'Kiss,' setting a tone that is both intimate and detached. Bree's lyrics quickly dispel any notions of a conventional Valentine's Day celebration, as he declares that he doesn't need a 'precious valentine' or assurances of being 'mine, all mine.' Instead, he seeks a deeper connection rooted in shared melancholy and loneliness.

The recurring line 'You're worthy of one just as wrong who is as dismal' suggests a relationship built on mutual flaws and imperfections. Bree seems to be saying that in a world full of disarray and grey, it's better to find solace in someone who understands your darkness rather than striving for an idealized, perfect love. This sentiment is further emphasized by the phrase 'better the devil,' implying that it's preferable to embrace the familiar, even if it's flawed, rather than chasing an unattainable ideal.

The song's melancholic tone is underscored by its minimalist instrumentation and Bree's somber vocal delivery. The repeated use of 'kiss' throughout the song serves as a stark contrast to the otherwise bleak lyrics, adding a layer of complexity to the emotional landscape Bree is painting. The final verses, 'So sigh entwined with me, dear / Lower ideals / I'm the runt you were born to live with / We'll struggle pitifully along / Together,' encapsulate the essence of the song—a resigned yet tender acceptance of a love that is far from perfect but deeply real.