Description
Sam Smith – Nirvana E.P. – RSD Smokey Green Vinyl Record
Record Store Day UK 2022
2022 ‘RSD First’ Release
3500 copies pressed
Released in 2013,
Released in 2013, Nirvana EP introduced many listeners to the soulful voice and emotional style of Sam Smith just as the singer was beginning to gain international attention. Arriving shortly after Smith’s breakthrough collaborations with Disclosure and Naughty Boy, the EP helped establish the foundation for the deeply personal pop and soul sound that would soon bring worldwide success.
The release centers on a small collection of songs that highlight Smith’s remarkable vocal ability. Even at this early stage of their career, Smith’s voice carries a striking combination of clarity, vulnerability, and power. The performances lean heavily into emotional delivery, allowing the melodies to rise and fall with a sense of dramatic expression that quickly set Smith apart from many contemporary pop artists.
The EP blends elements of modern pop, soul, and subtle electronic production. Smooth keyboard chords, gentle percussion, and understated arrangements create a spacious backdrop for the vocals. Rather than crowding the songs with heavy instrumentation, the production often keeps things restrained so that Smith’s voice remains the clear focal point.
The title track, “Nirvana,” showcases this approach particularly well. Built around soft piano and atmospheric production, the song unfolds gradually as Smith’s voice moves from quiet reflection into a soaring chorus. The emotional intensity of the performance hints at the style that would soon define Smith’s later recordings.
The songs explore themes of longing, emotional connection, and romantic vulnerability. The writing often feels intimate and confessional, reflecting personal experiences in a way that allows listeners to connect with the emotion behind the music.
Although Nirvana EP is brief, it played an important role in introducing Sam Smith as a solo artist. Within the following year, the singer would release the debut album In the Lonely Hour, which expanded on the emotional themes and vocal style first presented here.
Nirvana EP stands as an early glimpse of an artist on the verge of major success. With its soulful atmosphere, heartfelt lyrics, and standout vocal performances, the release captures the moment when Sam Smith’s powerful voice first began reaching a global audience.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Track Listing
Safe With Me
Nirvana
I’ve Told You Now (Live)
Latch (Acoustic)
