Mazzy Star’s “So Tonight That I Might See” is a haunting, holy album that has maintained popularity since nearly 25 years ago. The band continues to influence the music world even though the members no longer perform together. We’ve seen artists emulate the vocal style of lead vocalist Hope Sandoval, and the light instrumentals of composer David Roback. Beach House and Suki Waterhouse often reference Mazzy Star, by covering songs from “So Tonight That I Might See,” emphasizing the album’s impact on those to come.
The atmosphere created by singer Sandoval’s angelic voice forms a melancholic escape, weaving through complex emotions of yearning and vulnerability as the album unfolds. Airy vocals paired with dreamy instrumentals cultivating a soothing track despite the woeful lyrics.
Sandoval’s vocals have the potential to pacify a crying baby; her voice is delicate but intoxicating as she recounts every missed opportunity in life or unrequited love she’s suffered through. The aching in her voice can send a chill over your body, as she pours every part of herself into her music.
The lyricism in this album is intricate, and the lyrics harbor strong feelings of melancholy: “There’s a world outside my doorstep. Flames over everyone’s heart. Don’t you see them shining? I want to hear them beating for me.” Sandoval makes her misery universal, creating a place where everyone can ache over the unsavory parts of life.
Sandoval’s voice is close to perfect on its own, but the instrumentals bring the music to another level. Electric guitar riffs back her singing, and it feels as if the guitar itself is singing along with her. Roback syncs the notes from guitar to those of an electric piano, forming a melodious dreamscape. If you listen closely, you may hear the tambourine that is utilized throughout the album whispering in the background, completing the harmonious medley of sounds.
“So Tonight That I Might See” transcends time and continues to be held close by those who feel everything a bit too deeply. It’s an exploration of human experience, self-sabotage and grief, delivered in the most beautiful way. Recounting your worst times has never sounded so good.