Reviews (page 10 of 18)
During this last listen, on the ipod no less, my oldest kid wanted to ask me a question but I asked her to wait a minute so I could focus on the instrumental section of 'Big Mouth'. I realize that might sound mean, but I meant no ill will. I guess The Smiths are "dad rock" in this house and this is easily one of my favorite albums and very influential in a lot of ways. Earnest and beautiful in its eccentricities with very excellent, intricate guitar work. This doesn't get old. RIP Andy
A great record. Too bad about that lead singer dude.
Before starting this album journey I knew who the smiths/Morrissey was but had never listened to them. After their first album I thought I could understand why they were recognized for what they did. After the 5th or so album, I don't get it at all. Fuck Morrissey and Fuck the Smiths. Actual nonsense music that would sound the same if a wailing donkey was singing. The only good thing about this album is that it's under 40 minutes and doesn't drag out the torture.
The hits are huge, the filler tracks step into novelty at times.
A band I have never really listened to much. I gave this album a number of listens over the space of the day and it grew on me each time. Whatever may be said of Misery, he has a great voice and Johnny Marr’s guitar work is fantastic. Overall, deserves to be on the list and a must listen to album by the Smiths
Pretty Good
I’ve never liked this band, but this album was better than I thought it was going to be. Just don’t like the singer.
My first time listening to The Smiths. I really quite enjoyed it. Might even listen to it again…
eh
So you’re saying that this is one of the best albums of all time? Certainly that means it doesn’t have any silly songs on it. What?? Four silly songs?!
I’ve always loved this album but it was a little slower this time around. It still is incredible and one of the best 80s albums imo.
Great duh. My fave has gotta be either light that never goes out or some girls are bigger than others. A true 4.5 since there are some songs that are only ok.
Omg the smiths!!
Decent. They sure do got a signature sound
Was interested to hear this and research them - was Morressy part of the smiths? Where did they start, how many records etc. Well I don’t really care. Boring record, not my favorite production. Second half was certainly better. Not sure why I see this record on so many best of lists. I had higher expectations.
well it's the queen is dead
# Album Name: The Queen Is Dead # Artist: The Smiths # Rating: 4/5 # Comments: Honestly, i wanted to like this album wayyyy more than i did (based on a first listen). I know a few singles and they are crackers. But the first half of the album felt like a slowwwwww build up. 2nd half was way better. I'll come back to this one because the length is good. Makes a nice change from those 60+ mins hip hop albums. After coming back to the album i feel its definitely a grower. The 2nd half is the stand out for sure # Top Tunes: big mouth / i know its over / boy with the thorn.../ light that never goes out / queen is dead # Would I listen to it again? Yup.
I like this album and have listened to it before, it's nothing amazing but very listenable and fun. Favorite songs are: 2. Frankly, Mr. Shankly 6. Bigmouth Strikes Again 9. There Is A Light That Never Goes Out 8/10
This is a heavy nostalgia album. I first first into The Smiths the summer before our senior year of college. I listened There Is a Light That Never Goes Out and Bigmouth Strikes Again endlessly in the final year of Calumet. Those songs sound like summer and early fall on Mission Hill. They're running through Olmstead park to Jamaica Pond in crazy humidity, and sitting out with everyone on the deck at 55. I didn't listen to the whole album at the time, just a few songs, so the album itself isnt as nostalgic so I feel clearer eyed about the other songs. Frankly Mr Shankly, There is a Light, Bigmouth, and Some Girls are top tier (There is a Light and Big Mouth are S Tier). The rest are very good. but don't hit those heights. Album Cover: (A) Its a classic
Ugh. I wanted to love this album since I have always loved the song about being hit by a double decker bus. That song is a 6/5. The rest of the album didn't really do it for me. A couple funny lyrics but it was just the same sound the entire time.
"Frankly, Mr Shankly" is a really fun song, I wish it was longer. Very relatable, I also don't want to keep working. Is Mr. Shankly a real person, or just a convenient rhyme for the word frankly? The rest of the songs on this album were less fun than "Frankly, Mr Shankly." This was a good album but a little same-y for me. "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" is a famous song that I recognize. It's good! 7/10, a cool sound but I could have used more variety.
I hate Morrisey, but I can’t help but love this album.
Typical 80’s alt
Fuck Morrissey But the Album is great and I like the music. Perfect for a sad depressed walk in the forest
Classic for me, an album I've loved for a long time. I love the shimmering guitars, the quality Morrissey's voice. Great basslines.The lyrics are clever, or at least they try to be, and even when they border on being pretentious, I can't help but find them charming. Such an ENGLISH album, and such an 80s album. Fav tracks: Bigmouth Strikes Again, The Boy with the Thorn in His Side, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
I would have never thought to click on this album and at first I was not found of it. My original Review over all was a 3. However, after hearing it on repeat it grew on me. Now after listening to it for more than a year I give it a 5. This in my opinion is the order in which I liked the songs. 1. I know It’s Over 2. Vicar In A Tutu 3. Bigmouth Strikes Again 4. Frankly Mr. Shankly 5. There Is A Llight That Never Goes Out 6. The Queen Is Dead 7. Never Had No One Ever 8. Cemetery Gates 9. The Boy With The Thorn In His Side 10. Some Grils Are Bigger Than Others
This was pretty interesting I actually read along with the lyrics which brought out a lot more to me.
1st time listener to the full album, but I was familiar with its singles in various compilations, so I chose to listen to the “deluxe” version. It’s better mixed to my ear than what we had in 198x, Morrissey is more integrated into the mix and you can hear the under-rated Andy Rourke’s bass better and it’s kicking ass. https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-queen-is-dead-deluxe-edition/1257810218 Less emphasis on Morrissey makes this better.
Finally, Smiths rather than Morrisey. Some incredible songs on here, including a free of their very best. But also some weaker ones - always thought that run from 2-4 takes the steam out of the album before it clicks back into gear. It's a shame as some of the B-sides from around that time are better than half the album tracks. Swap those in correctly and it may be one of the greatest albums ever.
Some good tunes on here but equally a couple that didn’t quite work. A good overall album with There Is A Light a standout.
Fuck Morrissey but this is still a solid album honestly.
Ive done most of my Smiths listening via a comp downloaded from Kazaa in 2004, but it really says something when a comp includes 9 of 10 album tracks. This album would get a 4 for "There Is A Light And It Never Goes Out" by itself, but i knew going in that it would be a 5.
I do not get the smiths and I am at peace with that
I guess I forgot what the Smiths sound like, because I was expecting not to enjoy it, but I actually really liked their sound! Some songs were a little boring ("I Know It's Over" especially) but I liked the kind of soft rock/pop sound they had going.
1.5
Kind of drags on the front half but I can't deny the back half has some bangers even though I do not believe for one (1) second that Steven Patrick Morrissey has ever actually known how Joan of Arc felt
Not my thing but very well done alt rock!
I believe this is a classic album from the band by many. I'm not super into them generally and not for any particular reason even though Morrissey kind of sucks as a person? I think the music is catchy and the lyrics are unique although I'm always last on lyrics. The band that created the wave of jangle pop indie rock bands.
So che Morrissey è una brutta persona ma non mi farò l’autolesionismo di cercare perché
mai più avrei pensato di sbilanciarmi sulle cinque stelle, ma se lo meritano. il mix di irriverenza e depressione mi ha totalmente conquistata.
Mi dispiace, su questo album pochi commenti critici o unpopular opinion, solo banali ovvietà. Amo l’oscillazione costante tra ironia dissacrante e disperazione profondissima. Parliamo di crateri di disperazione. Con Frankly, Mr Shankly e Cemetry Gates (che tra l’altro penso sia una delle mie preferite, nonostante la brevità) ridi tantissimo, mentre brani come I Know It’s Over (un altro dei miei preferiti) prendono il tuo cuore, lo tritano con un mortaio e poi lo buttano nell’inceneritore. Nel senso: “It’s so easy to laugh, it’s so easy to hate, it takes strength to be gentle and kind, over, over, over, over […] Love is natural and real, but not for you, my love, not tonight, my love […] Oh, mother, I can feel the soil falling over my head.” È vero che forse a volte gli Smiths sfiorano l’autocommiserazione (secondo me, per esempio, in Never Had No One Ever un po’ succede), ma glielo abboniamo, dai. E niente. Tra tutti gli album che ho ascoltato degli Smiths, per ora questo rimane il mio preferito. È privo di difetti? Sicuramente no. Ma ormai abbiamo capito che al 5/5 non si comanda.
I have been poorly exposed to the Smiths music other than the singles which I liked. Not sure why as they influenced so many of the bands I liked. It may be because Morrissey seems like a complete twat! Catching up on 3 of their albums together and this was a the stand out album and it is a belter. I am sure many will find his voice annoying but it is perfect for this sound, and the music and lyrics work well together, and is very poetic in places. This has a few of the hits but has at least half a dozen top tracks. All hail the Smiths!
I'm shocked, because I really wanted to hate this album, and groaned inwardly when presented with it, since I have ever considered music by the Smiths to be whiny, maudlin junk. But I didn't hate it. In fact, I gave it a second listen, and now I'm even more shocked because I'm going to give it four stars.
i hate morrissey you do NOT know how joan of arc felt
That’s what I said when the queen died 😢
Pretty good not my kinda music kinda boring
no critiques - perfect
It wasn't offensive. Morressey is still annoying sometimes.
I can see why they’re influential to so many.
Perfect record
# 331 : Cringe! I don't like the Smiths, I don't love it, I don't hate it, I can listen to it, a couple of things stood out, Love the guitaring, can't stand the singing.
Melodically and rhythmically entertaining meets lyrically and vocally deficient. I wanted to like this album with its musical strengths but the monotone vocals and depressing and often just plain stupid lyrics got in the way. “Some girls are bigger than others … some girls mothers are bigger than other girls mothers“ is just plain stupid.
Great album full of all classics. No filler whatsoever
I'm a big fan of Bigmouth Strikes Again. A cool song and a cool fella but more importantly the album was a solid listen. Some of the track had the same formula to to it but it was still fun to listen to. Top 3 Fav: Bigmouth Strikes Again, There is A Light That Never Goes Away, and The Boy With The Thorn In His Side Top 3 Worst: no bad songs 3.50/5
US=REM UK=The Smiths
Wow--first it's Liz Phair, now The Smiths. What's next in the litany of not-my-favorite alt/emo rock? (I'm not sure I want to know the answer, honestly, especially since I can see we have 2 more Smiths albums in our future...) This is definitely *not* to my taste, regardless of whether Morrissey is a certified jerk, although that certainly doesn't help. But on the positive side, I don't think I've actually heard any of this album, so it's all new to me. I was surprised that the title track was so...lively...I'll admit (although not quite sure why YouTubeMusic served up a version of "The Queen is dead" as a "film" that was double the length of the actual song and seems to have just crammed in "There is a light that never goes out" and "Panic" at the end, the latter of which was only released as a single, I think, and was the only song I recognized). I'm actually hard-pressed to find many (any?) songs on this album that I found all that enjoyable, sadly, which is a shame given how many accolades the album has gotten. (I'll also say that I prefer Chumbawumba's "Big mouth strikes again" to the Smith's, even though it's not actually a cover and is about Lenny Bruce.)
I didn't like them when I first heard them and I don't like em now. They seem a little full of themselves.
I genuinely don't understand how someone could rate an album a 1 for simply being sad. Wild stuff out here man... Favorite song: I Know It's Over Least favorite: Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others Knew before: yes - an album that has shaped my music taste
Bigmouth Strikes Again The Boy with the Thorn in His Side Personal Favourite: There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
Too melodramatic for me
Melodramatic british folky rock. It's fairly forgettable, but "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" is pretty good
Interesting lyrics, sometimes quite comedic Some songs blend into each other a little bit, but quite enjoyable nonetheless Soundwise expected something else, more modern sounding from a 1986 album, but it's great, not complaining Production isn't mind blowing, but it's good. Crisp and clean tones on all instruments, with the vocals mixed nicely in between such that nothing overpowers. Favorite song: Never Had No One Ever
I hate morrissey
I'm not a massive fan of any of the individual Smiths albums, and if I was in the mood to listen to the Smiths this isn't the album I would select. Not bad or anything, just very middle of the road.
Not my kind of music
The critics weren't lying
A pegada melancólica desse álbum é muito boa.
Enjoyed the listen - probably after their first album this is the best
The Smiths are finally clicking for me. It took a couple of listens just focusing on Marr’s guitars and then by that point Morriseys vocals meshed much better against the music than the first time I tried this album. Rating: 4.8
Morrisey is a moaner but in a good way
Meh
listening while sad, good sad listen, some uplift in it all too
The Smiths is one of those bands that, every time I listen to them, they get stuck in my head for the rest of the day. Although this album is considered one of the best of all time, I think that’s a bit overhyped. It’s a really good album, but most of my all-time favorite songs from The Smiths are from different albums.
sorry sean, i kinda like the smiths
Meh. I’m a Morrissey hater
Alright
Cemetary gates y Bigmouth strikes againe han gustado mucho, pero las otras no tanto, han sido más meh
Poor Huw
Is she ?
Simply terrible assembly of musical notes
Reminds me of the singer Morrissey
Some of the Smiths/Morrissey albums can feel repetitive and boring once you get a few songs in but I thought this one changes the tone/energy enough to keep it interesting. It also feels like peak Morrissey dark wit songwriting “I was only joking when I said by rights you should be bludgeoned in your bed” “if you’re so clever/entertaining/good looking why are you on your own tonight? Because tonight is just like any other night”. Will definitely come back to this one. 4.1
4.1 When I think of what the Smiths are this would be the album I would reference. I think the songs differ enough to avoid some of the fatigue you get listening to some of the other smith or Morrissey albums. For me anyway
Great album, witty songs beautifully played and arranged great album.
I like The Smiths, but I do think they are a bit over-rated. Still, having said that it's hard to ignore the quality here, and without the band then the landscape of modern British music would be dramatically different. Bigmouth Strikes Again, The Boy With A Thorn In his Side and I Know It's Over are all really good, and of course There Is A Light That Never Goes Out is magnificent. Good album.
Still some playfulness in the band, a sense of mischief, and "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out" is wonderful.
Rating: 10/10 One of the greatest albums of all time, what an absolutely breathtaking album. Incredibly beautiful, lush instrumentation and amazing production. A timeless classic. Favorite songs: pretty much all of them. Least favorite song: Vicar in a Tutu.
Was a 4 until ‘Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others’… unbearably stupid
Morrisey knew exactly what it was to be a 16 year old girl.
A fantastic album. Separate art from the artist and appreciate this for what it is
Ta bueno. Empieza muy arriba y tiene buenos temas, pero no me la voló (a primera escucha, que me debía hace mucho)
Hate Morrisey, music is okay though, 3/5
This one brings me back to my early college days. My tastes had tended toward gloomier music with depressing lyrics. So bands like the Smiths, Bauhaus, The Sisters of Mercy, and The Damned were in heavy rotation. I revisited several of those bands over the years and some still strike a chord, but some songs are no longer relevant to my current situation. I was happy to hear that this album has aged well and was still very enjoyable.
I thought it was funny. It was well produced. It was not just funny, it was pure wit. Why does it sound so sad? It sounds good.
7.5/10
Its so easy to laugh, so easy to hate, it takes guts to be gentle and kind.
Not really into it, I enjoyed Cemetery Gates, but that's about it.
Don’t like the smiths. Never had, never will. If you like this album then there’s a good chance you have a hair cut like Liam Gallagher and your last name is Tudor. If I had to pick a favourite song I’d say bigmouth strikes again. 2/10. Poo.
I fell asleep listening to it, so I think that tells you what I thought of it.
Alright like. To be fair, the two greatest hits albums have all the best smiths songs, which makes the albums defunkt...
It was fine. A lot of songs had a similar sound to them
A classic of 80s indie rock that still sounds fresh today (unlike a certain man's political views)
Solid album. No real bangers but a good listen and it left me wanting to listen again.
2.5 pyöristyi tänään ylöspäin, vaikka edelleenkään en nauti Morrisseyn laulusta.
Hard to choose my favorite song on this one. Lots of great ones.
Nothing great about this one
dont care for this
It's The Smiths at the height of their powers. I Know It's Over is great, especially the second half. Cemetry Gates is a lively short one with great guitars and bass. The energy levels stay high as it transitions into Bigmouth with its memorable, jangly riff. The next riff, coming in with the verse, is even better. It's a frenetic, breathless track. There Is a Light That Never Goes Out must be the best song here, gloomy even for Morrissey, but with incredible vocals and strings bringing everything together. Some Girls is a brilliant closer too. Their best work? Maybe.
It's fine, but I agree with some other reviewers - it's too melancholy for my taste.
A clear ten out of five. Maybe even twenty out of ten. This is not just one of the best albums ever made, it is probably in my top three albums of all time. From the opening of the title track you get everything that makes this band so special. Sharp, fearless lyrics. Powerful, melodic music. Johnny Marr’s guitar playing is extraordinary from start to finish. The riffs are unforgettable. They are the kind you try to copy badly on a guitar in your bedroom because you simply have to play them. Every song feels essential. There is not a wasted moment. The melodies stay with you, the words mean something, and the whole album flows perfectly. It is packed with classics, and genuinely every track could have been a single. Favourite songs: Cemetery Gates and There Is a Light That Never Goes Out. Although you could make a strong case for any song here. Least favourite: None. Every track is a ten out of ten. Album artwork: Iconic. Instantly recognisable and perfectly in keeping with the band’s aesthetic
The Smiths passed me by when they were around, so i don't have any real teenage nostalgia for the songs. The album is absolutely fine, but not noticeably incredible. best track - Bigmouth.
Look, let's get one thing straight here: we all know Morrissey has lost the plot. I get that it's a betrayal and a shocking one at that. Imagine you went back in time and asked music fans which of these two singers would spew racist hatred and which would be actively challenging a world leader who himself spews racist hatred: Axl Rose or Morrissey? Funny how things work out. Anyway. The music. What we're here for. I should start by saying that this is not my favourite album of theirs (that would be 'Meat is Murder') but many smart people I know say this is their masterpiece. Even Christgau - a Smiths agnostic - says he had an "instant attraction" to this record. If you were to assemble a Greatest Hits compilation or a definitive Smiths playlist, I'd wager that a majority of the tracks would come from this album. Showcasing their wit and humour as much as their penchant for despair and melancholia ("I Know It's Over," "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out"), in 'The Queen is Dead,' you have memorable characters ("Frankly, Mr. Shankly" and "Vicar in a Tutu") and outstanding virtuosity (RIP to Andy Rourke, who makes the title track if you ask me), all awash in romantic and literary sensibilities from a one Stephen Patrick Morrissey. Possibly their artistic peak and certainly a good distillation of their sound, complete with a strong visual language that shows austere beauty. There are tiny moments on this album that really endear me to it, such as the noodling backing vocals on "Bigmouth Strikes Again" or the proto-Southwestern Meat Puppets-like vibe at the start of "Vicar in a Tutu." I for one don't hate the incongruity of the silly subject matter with the wistful musical accompaniment found on "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others." The Smiths? Morrissey? Cheeky? How could this be? RIP Alain Delon, you made a great album cover. A-
I have never been a fan of The Smiths, but never listened to their albums either.. this on ewas ok.. but still pretty depressing
Sorry for the four stars At least I’m not at a point in my life where I’m so obsessed with The Smiths and Morrissey anymore that I pretend this is a perfect album. Unfortunately there’s no perfect The Smiths albums, they’d always junk them up with at least one stinker. And while this has some of their greatest work ever, it also has at least three songs that are in, like, the bottom third of their discography. Can’t in good conscience rate it higher because of that. But, “I Know It’s Over” might be the best song they ever made. The lyrics are perfect and gut-wrenching, the music delicate and dreamlike. It’s a marvel and helps this album earn its stars.
Don't like the way he sings =\
Oh my… One of the best albums of my late teenage years. I found myself crying to it often, especially to the hauntingly beautiful “I Know It’s Over.” Morrissey’s poignant lyrics, Johnny Marr’s catchy melodies, and Andy Rourke’s intriguing bass lines make this album a masterpiece of the alternative genre. Every song hits the mark perfectly. P.S. The cover features the iconic Alain Delon. What could be better?
I was a the Smiths fan back in the day (when I was an angsty teen like everyone else) so this one is unfortunately a 10/10 for me.
The Queen Is Dead - 8,5/10 Frankly, Mr Shankly - 6/10 I Know It's Over - 6,8/10 Never Had No One Ever - 8/10 Cemetery Gates - 8,2/10 Bigmouth Strikes Again - 8/10 good but the higher voice in the background was a little annoying The Boy With The Thorn In His Side - 9/10 Vicar In A Tutu - 7,5/10 There Is A Light That Never Goes Out - 8,8/10 sounds so cozy and familiar Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others - 8/10 the beginning is so confusing why does it go hard and then soft
I don't know how they did it. They could say they had a 20-year-long bad dream, that they had no one ever, that dying by your side would be such a heavenly way to die, and somehow it's not cringey. It's amazing. This album is melodramatic, it's angsty and full of longing, it's packed with resignment and resentment, hopeless love and hopeless living. All the good stuff. I'd probably skip "Vicar in a Tutu" but otherwise every song is a banger. Love The Smiths. This album is incredible.
This album is hit after hit for me. Each song brings another fresh breath of nourishment. I love the world building in each song. I sink deep into the sweet embrace of the array of emotions each one offers. Like a sweet, sweet invitation. Somehow the invitation is open enough to let me in but feels connected enough that it taps into an interiority that I am so thankful they create. Broad and specific - JUST HOW!? “And I know it’s over - still I cling” “And I’m outside your house | I hate to intrude” “All those people, all those lives, where are they now?” Thanks for the eternal yearning, y’all!
Loved it!
Morrissey is a mood. I like the guitar work. I didn't love it, but appreciated it.
Goddammit. After all this time, I still know all the words. 500,000/5
I know everyone on this site likes to hate on Morrissey but there is no denying that he can make a good album when he wants to and The Queen Is Dead is absolutely no exception. The guitar and bass work were absolutely great here as well as the vocals. The lyrics could also be pretty great at points but pretty dumb at others. I will say that this album is quite a bit better than Meat Is Murder since while that album had it's good moments too, it also had some fairly iffy songs, a problem which this album seems to rectify. This is actually a really good album that is more than deserving of a 3.5 Best Song: Bigmouth Strikes Again Worst Song: Frankly, Mr. Shankly
Never could get past lead singer. Musicality is great, just move past singer.
Steve is so full of himself and probably depressed. He try’s to be deep but comes off as pretentious.
Cemetery gates is one of my favourite songs but there are a couple on here that are a bit too eccentric
Separate the art from the artist etc but Morrissey being an absolute weapon makes the decision to give this 4 or 5 stars a lot easier
I couldn't turn it off great album
I really disliked Meat Is Murder. This is… better? Somewhat? More tolerable, I suppose. My issue with Morrissey and The Smiths is that most of their songs are overdone, overindulgent, and whiney. Plus Morrissey as a human is so repugnant that I have a hard time even attempting to enjoy anything he’s done. This is probably the best it’ll get for me with The Smiths. I actually enjoyed a few of the songs on the album - “The Queen Is Dead,” “Cemetry Gates,” and “The Boy With The Thorn In His Side.” I’d like to give this a 2.5, but I’m rounding up against my better judgment.
GOAT
Quite literally a perfect album.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO i forgot to listen so speed run the queen is dead- 3 stop singing. "i never even knew what drugs were" the voice crack... frankly mr shankly- 3 i know its over- 3. shut up never had no one ever- tbh. HES OUTSIDE MY HOUSE??? 3 cemetary gates- 3 bigmouth- bro i thought this was mumford and sons. what are the lyrics... 2 or 3 the boy with the thorn in his side- 2 no more please
Ok, I listened to the whole album. Can I be done with the Smiths now? I mean, it’s not awful, but once I heard one song, I heard pretty much everything they’ve done.
Yay another Smiths album and Morrisey's whining singing. This is getting so old.
Get me a pint and a cigarette. The Smiths make me want to sit at a pub with my lads while I’m still thinking about her. Sad boy British punk with some big time clash roots. What’s not to love. Would give a clean 5 but all the smith albums are starting blend together.
So we've reviewed another Smiths album and a Morrissey album. I can't say that any of it felt more than luke warm to me. Nothing terrible but nothing but a few hits that stood out. This album seemed a bit better than the other 2 but not by a lot. The singing didn't become tedious and showed a bit more range than in the others. I came up with REM as a comp only not as interesting or catchy. I gave the Morrissey a 3; should have been 2.6. This is a 3
Nothing really to remember or anything that really stood out.
Likely the best Smiths album. There is a Light… especially. 9/10
The Smiths never really resonated with me. It's fine I guess, but I'm not going to listen to it again.
As someone who generally passionately hates The Smiths, I put that behind me and went into this with open ears, and I was pleasantly surprised. Don't get me wrong, this album is still shit - I can't stand Morrisey's stupid fucking monotone whining voice - BUT, I didn't hate all the songs, and I definitely didn't hate the instrumentals. The guitarwork was nice, and had a great 80's tone to it. I genuinely enjoyed the title track of this album, I don't think I'd listen to it regularly, but it's tolerable. But that's about as far as I can go for the positives. This album is whiney, annoying, and boring. Most songs drag on and on and on. When the album finished, I genuinely couldn't tell when it looped because each song sounds exactly the same as the other. I still hate The Smiths, and I still hate Morrisey's annoying vocals and lyrics - but I at least can say that this album isn't the 1 star rating I was expecting to give and I'm glad I at least gave it a chance.
Not nearly as bad as I had expected, my biggest prolonged exposure to The Smiths was David Fincher's The Killer and I didn't mind it there but wasn't sure if it was something I would go out of my way to listen to. On my first listen through which I tried to avoid interrupting, I was definitely left with the impression that the album was mostly a sad and mopey affair towards the middle and end of the tracklist. When I was going back through and paying more attention to the individual songs my opinion changed a little and felt that there were definitely some songs that added a bit of levity to an otherwise delicate and moody album. Even with the few songs that did sound like already treaded ground, the songs themselves were not bad. There was also a lot of humour in the album, morbid or otherwise which was fun. That line about the double decker bus was certainly something. Highlights - The Queen is Dead The titular track fucking rocks, felt distinct from the rest of the album with just how traditionally Rock & Roll it felt compared to the rest of the album (Bigmouth is maybe the only song I feel was in line with this track). Why couldn't Sonic Youth have the same restraint this song does with using the whammy bar to close the song out? - Frankly, Mr. Shankly "I want to catch something that I might be ashamed of" Was Morrissey a bug chaser? Goofy fucking song (not derogatory) - I Know It's Over Probably my favourite of the more moody side of this album. Morrissey has an interesting way of singing, he has this voice of a cunty yodeler. The kind of thing you would expect some obnoxious bard you're not supposed to like to have in some fantasy setting. But have to begrudgingly appreciate his talent - Never Had No One Ever Again, kinda getting into familiar territory from this point forward but still a nice song. The part with the whistling was nice and eerie - Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others BBW/Architect Anthem. The Guitar on this song is fantastic and had me jamming out to a track I would probably otherwise just laugh at. I suppose that's not necessarily a bad thing, it was nice to end on a more fun track too.
The Queen is Dead - wtf this bops, instrumentals are immaculate, the drum, bass, guitar and loose percussion all doing amazing things. Vocals are more my speed, better than the most of their hits. Frankly, Mr. Shankly - goofy ahh song. I didn't enjoy it quite a bit though, instruments all doing wonderful things. Morrissey wasn't too bad in this one. I know it's over - starts off like a song one of the bands in that weird Twin Peaks roadhouse would play while Agent Cooper tweaks out in the corner. Great lyrics well sung. Never Had No One Ever - really liked this one overall. Cemetery Gates - this one didn't jive with me in any way, but nothing about it is particularly awful. Bigmouth strikes again - bass and drums going hard on this one. Vicar in a Tutu - another goofy ahh song, but it's sounds very good. Instruments and vocals on point, the thumping bass in particular There is a light that never goes out - I think this song having been needle dropped in over a dozen movies I've seen kinda ruined it for me in the past. However, actively listening to it now I can certainly appreciate that the instrumental work is excellent and I enjoy it a lot. The vocal performance and a few of the lyrics are put on a bit much. Some girls are bigger than others - really liked the layered guitar, the reverby steel string guitar sounded great I think Morrissey's yodel-esque voice on most of these tracks make it hard for me to totally love the album. I can see the appeal for a lot of people, it just doesn't work for me. The vocals were most enjoyable for me on I Know It's Over and The Queen Is Dead. The songwriting is great and clever, sometimes a bit silly/quirky which is all good. The hits on this album have been played to death in films and series for decades to the point where I can't take the lyrics of these songs seriously. Each line of these hits deal psychic damage to me. The instrumentals are on point throughout the whole album and I enjoyed it immensely.
another british vocalist. but this time i only find the vocals mildly irritating. the best part about the smiths was always the drums and the bass, they really pull the band together. anyway i didn't listen to this album too much anymore cos morrissey is one of the few artists were i struggle to seperate the art from the artist cos he's so fucking prolific in every project he was in. tried not to let that influence the rating tho cos the music is still pretty good listening.
I genuinely resent that I enjoyed this album. I hate the smiths, morrisey is such an insufferable fuckwit. The lyrical content of these songs is absolute dog ass garbage. I really wanted to be vindicated and for this album to be fucking terrible. However, it would be totally disingenuous of me to review this poorly. Musically, this is fantastic. Phenomenally composed music. Morrissey’s singing voice honestly isn’t even that bad. I just tuned out what he was saying (gay faggot retard incel poetry dumbass garbage) and just vibes with the actual music. The only times I didn’t enjoy this album is when I briefly became aware of what he was actually saying and got the same feeling you do when you are halfway through eating something and notice it’s mouldy.
Everything I listen to this album it's like the Vince McMahon meme, where I'm like, this is what a 10 sounds like, no wait this is, no wait this is. With each song until Vicar in a Tutu. Crazy that this ain't even their best imo. 10/10 Fav tracks - All - 1 Least Fav - Vicar in a Tutu
First off; Is that a motherfucking big mouth reference!? Look overall this was fine, sure there are some stinkers like the skankly song. Rest are not too bad, knew a couple songs from here and there, like the instrumentals more than the voice thats for sure but I don't hate this. Tbh when i saw Marko preping to get crucified for his love of these guys i was like damn they must truly suck ass. But Its fine so idk. Didn't really stand out to me on a deeper level either was just 80s synth rock kinda beat which i don't mind but think i have heard better from the genre. 3/5
A fantastic listen from start to finish, The Queen Is Dead gives an opportunity for every member of the band to stand out. The lyrics hit me right, the vocals are next level, Matt’s guitar work is only matched on Strangeways. The Smiths made four albums and they’re all solid gold. The songs that I find are weaker (Frankly Mr Shankly and Vicar In A Tutu) are still supremely listenable. Giving this 5 because it would be a pisstake for me to try and dig this down to a 4 for the sake of ‘critique’, I can listen to any of these songs ten times in a row and not get sick of them. I really don’t have a whole lot to say other than I love this album. Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others is one of my favourite songs ever, an anthem for tit guys.
My 6th form sound track.
Still a wonderful album.
Not bad
Once I made a mistake and took 'The Queen is Dead' CD to a car. Songs about dying in a crash make terrible driving sountrack, I do not recommend.
Every time I listen to The Queen Is Dead, I learn to love it more. When I first heard it in early high school, I was a bit too closeted and immature to appreciate it, but as songs like “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” became hipster chic, I slowly came around to the singles by college. By my mid-20s, I could fully admit that this was a classic, very good album, with a couple sour spots. Today, though, I think I might fully be in love, 110%. Like, it might be one of the best albums I’ve ever heard. Ignore Morrissey’s flamboyant, obnoxious lyrics, even though I unfortunately have to admit I relate to them as a flamboyant and obnoxious individual myself. The music on this album is masterful. The way Johnny Marr composes a song is elegant, with no moment of excess. It’s intricate and detailed, and while those terms get thrown around a lot in pop music, I think the songs on The Queen Is Dead not only warrant their use, but are the textbook definitions of those words. It goes beyond “the perfect pop song” and just enters into “the perfect song.” It helps that The Smiths have an incredible, *incredible* rhythm section – so in sync, perfectly supportive yet still interesting bass lines, dynamic drums with unexpected but fitting fills. And then back to Morrissey – this album is so goddamn good, I almost don’t give a fuck that he is who he is. Does “Vicar in a Tutu” almost invalidate the praise I’m vomiting here? Potentially. But it’s not a bad song, or maybe not even a lesser song; it’s just a hokey song, and like, okay, that’s ‘80s era indie music for you, y’know? Plus every great album has one bad song, right? (See Example A: Thriller) Everything else on here is an 11/10 song, though. Like, some of the greatest songs I’ve ever heard. At this point, “There Is a Light…” is probably my least favorite song on here, and it’s one of the greatest songs ever written. This is just one of those records where you find a new favorite every relisten. Today it’s “I Know It’s Over,” but last year it was “Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others,” and before that it was “The Boy with the Thorn in His Side,” and next week it’ll be “Frankly, Mr. Shankly.” What can I say? This is flawless, and has only gotten better with time. I love it, and I feel no shame admitting that.
Late to the Smiths party, I’m glad I finally got there in the late nineties. Lyrics & music that’s instantly recognizable. Stevie & Johnny burned bright, moody & all.
Great one
good vocals, as always with Morrissey.
Classic alternative rock album. I'm not always in the mood for the "mopey" lyrics but the bouncy jangly rock is always good to look at that.
already know this one and it's good.
3 - Some tracks hit: Cemetry Gates, I know It's Over, second half of There Is a Light That Never Goes Out. Despite this, many are very forgettable or just mid. The harsh transitions between tracks can be jarring. I was mostly impressed that the album kept me mostly engaged throughout the run. It definitely benefits from being a short listen.
The struggle is real. The Smiths in general make albums that sound like one long song. That’s not to say I don’t like them! My wife with a Morrissey voice is a hilarious way to enjoy a weekend afternoon. Their music is good. Their vibe is solid. This isn’t a 4 star album. Peace be with you.
**an ok album
Very cold take but I think this album is good. Better than Meat is Murder. I don't think it's among the best of all time but I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy it. Best Track: The Boy With The Thorn In His Side Worst Track: Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others
Best Song: Bigmouth Strikes Again Worst Song: Some Girls are Bigger than Others
This will be a tough one, I HATE Morrisey or however you spell his name. I do enough of The Smiths to believe that I may like them. I guess that’s a good thing because this is NOT the album you want to listen to if you are curious about them. Maybe this is their sound and it doesn’t get any better. I really like How Soon is Now? Which isn’t on this album. Shame. I can’t give this a 2 star because it is instrumentally pleasing, it’s just not catchy . It’s not experimental or storytelling to me either so I’m not just sticking to one preference. It’s not even that gloomy and I thought the Smiths were supposed to be one of the kings of gloom. Whatever, I will give them another listen one day. This just didn’t make the cut above mediocrity. Choice cut: Big Mouth Strikes Again
A good album from one of my favourite bands, it’s not as good as “meat is murder” or “the smiths” but it does contain my favourite smiths song of all time “there is a light that never goes out” so I’ve got a lot of time and love for it.
This is good, especially the 3 singles, but not as good as Meat is Murder, the lp before this one.
Thoughts before listening: I really like the Smiths although Morrissey has become a bit insufferable over the years. All of their albums tend to run together to me, so I don't really have any thoughts on this one in particular, but I know its really good. In general the Smiths put out some of my favorite 80s albums. Review: Morrissey's lyrics and singing style gets all the press with the Smiths, but I really love their music. Johnny Marr was a very inventive guitarist, and the bass lines are high in the mix doing a lot of heavy lifting on the melodies. There are some absolute classics of 80s alt rock on this album including "The Queen is Dead", "Cemetry Gates", "The Boy With the Thorn in His Side", and "There is a Light That Never Goes Out". 5-stars
Meh
I only listened to Morrisey, but first time with The smiths and I added to the rotation, and getting new songs on my playlist
Don't hate the Smiths quite as much. Too bad their singer is a twit. Great rhythm section.
Àlbum bastante completo de los Smiths
It's a good record. Probably could go three or four stars. I guess I'll go a soft 4.
Pure gas!!! Better than MIM.
Bueno, bueno.
Classic & essential.
My favorite album of theirs. Still incredible.
I liked this more than I thought I would. More uptempo than I assumed the album would be. Still not my favorite style of music but I enjoyed this. 3.5/5 Might listen again
Peak Smiths. Shame about Morrissey
Мелодичный. Спокойный. Прогулка одному. Не зацепил.
Uno de los mejores álbumes de los '80s británicos sin lugar a duda. El sucesor del LP "Meat Is Murder" está lleno con algunas de las canciones más icónicas de la fugaz carrera de The Smiths, en 37 concisos minutos de puro pop introvertido y alternativo. Para algunos, el mejor álbum de la banda. Sumamente recomendable e indispensable, sobre todo para los seguidores del subgénero del jangle.
actually enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would
I liked it, would listen again
You could call this album the beginning of the 90s music. The typical 80s sounds is not there anymore, but still it is 1986. Great collection of typical Smiths-songs!
Listened to this album 4ever, great great classic great love it awesome 3.8
3.5
Cool record and band except for Morrissey. I find him to be the most annoying musician so it's hard for me to give this 4 or 5 stars. He's just so whiney. No thank you.
Good album overall. Standout songs: I Know its over Cemetery Gates The Boy with the Thorn in his Side
One of my favourite albums of all time. Every tracks works. Morrissey’s lyrics and vocal delivery are deliciously hilarious. He’s a comic genius like Marilyn Monroe and Maggie Smith.
Fuck Morrissey
Sadhappy
Obviously this albumn is gonna be here, pretty often consider as one of the best album of all times. The Smiths here perfectly manage their status at the times, with a veryu controversial album (Meat is Murder) an take that hype to create a more pop oriented album but still very outsiuder and provocative. The iconic cover is a picture of Alain Delon in a movie called L'insoumis, and i think its their best cover. The album started with the title track The Queen is Dead and is an anti-monarchy song wich was pretty controversial at the time, On this song, the drums is really the cornerstone of the song in my opinion. Frankly Mr Shantly is pretty different of the other track, with a happier sounding musicality, but honnestly i dont really like it. I know its over is another constrats with the previcous track, more slow and about loneliness and desperation. pretty good No on ad no on ever show the Smiths at their best, when they are sad and desperate. Cemetery Gates, despite its title is pretty happier, again the smithsd are not always good when the songs are happier, but its not bad either. Bigmouth Strike again is also pretty up beat and have pretty cool lyrics The boy with the thorn on his side is a prefect Smiths song for me, and up beat riff, lyrics about loneliness, despaeration or desire for love in this case, with a very long title. On of the best on the album, apparently on of Morrissey's favorite. Vicar is a Tutu is an enjoyable track, happier with lighter lyrics wich is not always good for them, but in this case is pretty good. Even tho i'm not sure what the song is about. There is a light that never goes out, is another perfect Smith song, for the same reason, but time time its just their bes of all their discography i think this song is their best. Just of the chorus, Johnny Marr Guitare and Morrissey voice is so great, a song about and love and death and depression is just exaclty what the smiths are. Some Girls Are Bigger than other is my favorite on the album, just sarcasm/humour in the Smiths manner, the riff is the bets on the album. I alwats like the fade effect in the intro, i don't know why but i like it. I think the song mock the mans way to percived woman in all of history. This album is mostly due to the genius of Morrisey and Johnny Marr song writting, and his voice and the other guiate make it a truly unique album.
Really. First Belle and Sebastian, now this. Once in my twenties I took some acid. After ditching my friends and skateboarding through puddles in a shopping centre carpark for an hour I went home. There were Smiths film-clips playing on a night time music show. I sat down on the couch and watched 8 or 9 Smiths videos to give them the benefit of the doubt. I was equal parts intrigued and dismayed. Don't do drugs, kids. Vivat regina. 1 star..
Another album that just isn't heavy enough for me unfortunately. But it does put me back in the mood to listen to more of my old dad rock. I think I might appreciate this album more when I get older and my ears become more sensitive. Right now though I think I'll stick to my usual.
and if a double decker bus 🗣️ 🗣️ 🗣️ ‼️
Ugh he's so insufferable
Los smiths en su gloria
I only got to know The Smiths after a friend who knew that I really liked The Cure drew my attention to them. Despite all my reservations about Morrisey, I find their voice interesting. And so I also find this album, which I haven't heard so explicitly before, exciting. It's not one of my top albums, but it's worth listening to again. 4/5
Good album, didn't stick with me.
It was decent
I should have appreciated The Smiths more at the time. Enjoyable album.
Not bad but not very memorable
The smiths are awesome. One of a kind
It's all good, but There Is a Light That Never Goes Out blows the rest of the songs out of the water.
Fucking hell Manchester must have been a bleak place in the 80s. Four stars because The Smiths are culturally important and Johnny Marr is cool.
my favorite Smiths album although I usually listen to Louder Than Bombs which is their greatest hits. Several of the songs on here are also on that.
Sensational. What an album. The unique vocals of Morrissey, brilliant lyrics and that fabulous guitar sound that Johnny Marr produces. One of my favourite bands and always will be. Simply brilliant 👏
Goed album, mooie zang, origineel. Maar uiteindelijk pakt het me net niet genoeg
Wow. The Queen is actually dead.
I love it but have to remove a star because Morrissey
More of this fella? I don't get it. Never have
Musically they are good but lyrically they just repeat the same words over and over......and over
Look - I get the Morrissey hate. He’s a massive wanker to use the UK parlance of our time. BUT - this fucking record slaps. Not a bad note in it. Really just mopey hit after mopey hit.
Another easy classic
It's a quintessential jangle-pop album, no doubt. Some great tracks on this album, but I'm not sure I'd actually consider it their best album, I'd probably tag the self-titled debut for that. The title track, Bigmouth and Some Girls are songs certainly worth checking out. Also, fuck Morrissey..
Another perfect album
one of the albums of all time sorry
own
3.6 stars rounded up.
Zero Hate Morrissey
"There Is a Light that Never Goes Out" is an alright song, but I genuinely don't like Morrisey... Sorry not sorry.
Sounds like a great product of the times
Irritating.
There is so much Morrissey on this list and it's like being forced to visit your racist uncle on a regular basis. At least at this point he was still married to Auntie Jonny Marr who is supremely talented and bakes you guitar based cookies of the highest quality. I'm so glad they got divorced so Auntie can go off and live his best life and uncle goes down a YouTube rabbit hole and becomes a sad old man that shouts at clouds and black people. 3 stars out of respect for Jonny
I personally would include ALL their studio albums on this list. This may be their best.
morisey luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku luumukurkku -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- -.- the quen is dead
"The Queen Is Dead" is a masterful showcase of The Smiths at their peak. Released in 1986, this third studio album solidifies the band's signature sound, blending Morrissey's witty, sardonic lyrics with Johnny Marr's intricate guitar work. Standout tracks like "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" and the title track demonstrate the group's ability to combine melancholy themes with catchy melodies. The album's mix of upbeat rhythms and darker subject matter creates a compelling contrast throughout. While not without its occasional lulls, "The Queen Is Dead" remains a defining work of 1980s alternative rock. Its influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable, making it an essential listen for fans of the genre. A 4/5 rating is well-deserved, acknowledging the album's brilliance while leaving room for personal preferences or minor critiques.
Couldn't finish tbh. This album sucks
Incredibly boring - as always
It wasn't bad, but I just don't really see much of anything for me to return to here.
This was fine for what it is. 2.8
It was too good for 1 star even though that is what I think it deserves.
i liked the big song on here! the rest was just okay.
morrissey has only become more crazy and polarizing with age, but damn I enjoyed this album. this is peak smiths for me - the songs are sad boy new wave on the surface but have some interesting lyrics and moving tracks. there is a light that never goes out is my favorite song of theirs and I'm glad to finally spin into this album. favorites: frankly mr shankly, I know it's over, cemetry gates, bigmouth strikes again, the boy with the thorn in his side, there is a light that never goes out, some girls are bigger than others
I dig this album. Always have. Lilting melodies of tragedy and despair with a side of misogyny. I dig his vocals, and Marr on guitar.
Great album
The Smiths is one of those bands that, every time I listen to them, they get stuck in my head for the rest of the day. Although this album is considered one of the best of all time, I think that’s a bit overhyped. It’s a really good album, but most of my all-time favorite songs from The Smiths are from different albums.
Already listened to this one! "The Queen Is Dead" is an indie classic. Some of The Smiths' best performances are on this one. Morrissey is an awful person outside of music, and that's a shame, because he is an cool singer. Johnny Marr is one of my favorite guitarists. That album cover is classic. Most of the tracks on this album are fucking fantastic! First time I heard the album, I didn't give it that much praise, but after 2 or 3 listenings, I finally get it and I fucking love it! The title track opens the album. I love the usage of "Take Me Back To Dear Old Blighty" at the beginning, but most of the song is cool, from that drum intro, to Morrissey's baritonal vocals, to those lyrics. This is a favorite of mine. "Frankly, Mr. Shankly" is a short one, but I like its meaning, and I like the part from 0:39 seconds. "I Know It's Over" is my most favorite song on this album. I love the vocal progression. The lyrics are so meaningful to lots of people out there. "Cemetry Gates" is an up-beat one, but the imagery of the lyrics is a dark one. It was my most favorite for a while, it's still a favorite of mine. I fucking love "Bigmouth Strikes Again"! That's all I can say "The Boy With The Thorn In His Side" was the first single for this album, and for good reason. It's a dance-y one. (And I apologize to the people reading my reviews for not being that good at giving reasons on favorite tracks) "Vicar In A Tutu" is a little underrated. I love the meaning of "living life however you want". "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out"...what else can we say about this one? Other than that it's a classic! One of the best love songs of all time! One of my favorite songs of all time! The most popular Smiths song, but I am not mad at it! It absolutely deserves it's popularity and praise! And here is the album closer, "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others". I like this song, it's energetic, and I like the chorus. Overall, fantastic album! A representative album for Manchester! Near perfect album, but "Never Had No One Ever" is my least favorite. One of the best 80s albums. My favorite Smiths album (just like other people's favorites)! An album worthy of it's praise! You get something from these 10 tracks in nearly 40 minutes. Each song is it's own world. Check this one out if you haven't yet! -favorite songs: all of them (except "Never Had No One Ever") -least favorite song: Never Had No One Ever
So radical, so POIGNANT, never ending delight. 4 stars
Great varied music.
Another The Smiths album? Too much.
Sorry, just not a fan...
I am a much bigger Johnny Marr fan than I am of Morrissey but Morrissey has some of my favorite moments of his on this record. The hooks they wrote on this album are incredible and this is a constant listen for me.
Frankly Mr. Shankly The Boy with the Thorn In His Side Was a chill album. Easy to listen too and get lost in but I’m not in awe and need to listen again. One was enough. The sound is kind of a magical aura feeling.
Really brilliant musicianship - I'll average it out as 5* because it is really impressive. I think I preferred meat is murder, but that's a taste thing. Also There is a Light That Never Goes Out is worth a star by itself lol.
1 song op zich valt mee... meerdere na elkaar is echt wel te veel zelfbeklag en geneuzel en navelstaarderij op een rij... zeer vermijdbaar plaatje
Amazing album that transcends genre. A+
Not into it, this is the second Smith's album and it's not bad, but nothing great or interesting about it.
They have such a distinct sound. I actually enjoy it...for about half an album then it starts to get old. But at least now I know that some girls are bigger than others I guess.
Feeling 4.5/5 but not worthy of 5. Will be listening to more of the smiths
The guitar is meh but man can this Morrissey sing! Incredible voice, I can't see this guy ever having a bad idea. Excited for what he does next.
Probably the best of the 3 or 4 Morrissey albums I've gotten so far. But overall, still pretty bland and forgettable. Just too slow for my tastes.
Difficult to overstate the cultural significance of this album for people of a certain age. The slow burn influence was the normalisation of homosexuality. These were gay love songs that nonetheless resonated with straight listeners. It’s one of the all-time great albums because it changes the way you see the world. Not a wham-bang instant revolution, but a gradual integration of gay and straight emotional life. I know it’s currently fashionable to hate on Morrissey, but he created the more tolerant world that we’re now living in. All the songs are amazing in their own way, but the standouts are: Cemetry Gates, Bigmouth, The Boy With The Thorn In His Side and There Is A Light. If I had to choose a Desert Island track it would be Cemetry Gates, but if I had to pick a single track to encapsulate what this album is all about it would be The Boy With The Thorn In His Side.
too bad morrissey is a shit waffle could i write poetry to this? y sad poetry but yes
Meh
I would love this if I didn't hate Morissey so much
Couple misses, but the hits make up for them.
Lovely
Better than I always remember
Morrisey descubre que existen las watonas PD. CABROS LA REINA ESTA MUERTA RWAAAAAA!!! PPD. Frankly Mr. Shankly besto song
I hate this album and music
Same review as the last one, I suck. Remember not being particularly wowed though by something with as much esteem as this album gets.
Also liked this more than the other Smiths album we had. Morrissey has an interesting voice and I don’t love it, but it’s growing on me
I always heard people talk about The Smiths with reverence and after we got our first Smiths album, I was like eh I don’t get it. We just got the wrong one first, this album was really good
sounded listenable enough but i don't think i get the smiths
Go to sad gay mood album
I didn't know this album at all. It has the same kind of sad-80's vibe as The Cure, though less goth. I kind of got into Bigmouth, but on the whole the album didn't especially hook me.
A couple of 5-star songs, but most songs are 3-star dragging it to a 4-star album. Then -1 Star for Morissey being Vegan Ted Nugent these days.
If you can't include compilations/best of albums like Louder than Bombs, than Strangeways is definitely a better album. I still liked the songs I remember liking (Big Mouth, There is a Light That Never Goes Out), but the rest mostly drifted into the angst-y whinining I know the Smiths is know for but come on (I Know It's Over, Never Had No One Ever) or jangly attempts at rockabilly that don't quite land (Vicar in a Tutu).
One of the most sinfully boring albums I’ve ever even attempted to listen to.
Morrissey is a cun.....
It took me an extra day to rate this one but I decided to not let the couple of tracks I disliked affect the fact that the rest of the album was good! Good music, interesting lyrics, catchy. Listens: 2 Fave Track: There Is A Light That Never Goes Out Rating: 4
Morrissey that’s not how Joan of arc felt
Better than I remembered it.
The same Smiths. Enjoyable but repetitive.
Not a fan of the Smiths, sorry. Favourite track: there Is a light that never goes out
I might have listened to this a long time ago, but I don't recall. Never been a huge fan of Morissey's voice or the stream-of-consciousness lyrics. But the music is pretty good. In the end it adds up to a below-average listening experience. "She said, " 'Ey, I know you, and you cannot sing' "
Solid
I could not be more familiar with this amazing album. I’ve been listening to it for nearly 40 years.
Great fucking album, top 10 of my all time list. Just perfect to me. The Smiths are one of my favorites bands ever, and this album was the main reason for it. Fav Songs: Almost Any of Them Least Fav Song: Vicar In a Tutu
Not my favorite Smith's album and Morrissey has more recently exposed his far right/fascist side - but still some good songs in there. I regularly listen to Bigmouth Strikes Again: "Now I know how Joan of Arc felt as the flames rose to her Roman nose and her Walkman started to melt".
A lot of nostalgia listening to this album. I was never a huge fan of the Smiths in the 80s but they were mixed in with the new wave stuff I was listening to at the time. I used to think they were depressing and whiny, but now I found the lyrics hilarious and the guitar relaxing. Not sure about the whole album, but there are three songs that resonate - Bigmouth Strikes Again, The Boy with the Thorn in His Side, and There is a Light That Never Goes Out. Ironically, one of these songs is on a Viridian Spotify Playlist.
Ehh
Voel dit gwn niet
Zieke prank de hele tijd met een gek stemmetje zingen
Almost quintessentially 80's style music: light, electronic assist, tuneful, catchy. Morrissey's voice is melodic and matches the music as well.. as long as you ignore what he is saying. I went into this expecting it to be a big downer based on the reputation, but the first song was bright and energetic and uplifting... again, as long as you ignore the lyrics themselves. Then you start noticing the lyrical absurdities and depression "Oh please please please don't kill me", he croons softly and lightly as the chorus. More hits than I remembered from this album, hearkens back to my youth. Thoroughly enjoyed this listen. Downsides: * Not danceable * Singer's voice is too low pitched * Wonderful schadenfreude.
Solid...not great.
The feeling on your birthday when you’re simultaneously filled with the hope and promise of the future and the dread that has passed you by and the best is behind you. Yet you smile and blow out the candles anyway to the cheers of your loved ones.
I might have listened to this a long time ago, but I don't recall. Never been a huge fan of Morissey's voice or the stream-of-consciousness lyrics. But the music is pretty good. In the end it adds up to a below-average listening experience. "She said, " 'Ey, I know you, and you cannot sing" " 2 stars. Not my favorite Smith's album and Morrissey has more recently exposed his far right/fascist side - but still some good songs in there. I regularly listen to Bigmouth Strikes Again: "Now I know how Joan of Arc felt as the flames rose to her Roman nose and her Walkman started to melt".
Depression and thoughts about the problems In the UK in the late 80s the album. Also it gave me a feeling of anxiety I've never felt before so that's great. Highlights: "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out", "Cemetry Gates" and "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others" also this album made me learn about the "last Exit to Brooklyn" by Hubert Selby Jr and the harsh horrifying realism of the book.
意外的不错
Perfect gloom and doom for daily introspection. Thank you, Marr & Morrissey, et al.
I hate you Morrissey.
Moderately entertaining.
I would like The Smiths a lot more if Morrisey wasn't so irritating. Last time we were made to listen to a The Smiths album, I think I reluctantly enjoyed it and was saying it was a shame Mr M. turned out to be such a prick. This time I was reminded I also find his voice and the whole twirling-a-bunch-of-flowers-whilst-wearing-a-diaphanous-shirt thing annoying. I actually like the music. Having said that, this album has more filler than hits. But some classic songs. The Smiths fall into the "Love the hits, the rest is shit" category for me. 3 stars
Pfff, wat een slaapverwekkend album zo in de vroege ochtend... I know its over heeft de zanger bijna klagend/ huilend zingend, en dat zorgt er nou niet voor dat de sfeer er lekker in zit. Ook niet een heel mooi nummer naar mijn mening. Dan vind ik frankly mr shankly veel vermakelijker, dat vind ik nog wel geinig namelijk! Vind de zanger totaal niet prettig om naar te luisteren. Zal vast volledig aan mijn smaak liggen, of het gebrek daaraan, maar ik vind het allemaal maar wat zeikerig en dromerig over komen. De instrumentals doen echt zwaar hun best en doen de heavy lifting op dit album, waardoor het uiteindelijk vooral een vrij nietszeggend album is met weinig nummers die er echt uitspringen. FAVO: Frankly mr Shankly, Cemetry gates
Standouts: I Know It's Over, There Is A Light That Never Goes Out Overall a really chill album. I'm not too sure what the meanings behind some of the songs were as they did seem quite odd from the occasional glances I gave towards the lyrics. However, just listening to how it sounded, it was really pleasant. I think my favorite was "I know It's Over" and I will definitely listen to that song more.
This album was written by an energy vampire. It sucked so friggin bad. If I could give a 0 / 5 I would
Still pretty good, although I don't really listen to The Smiths now Morrissey is out as a horrible racist. Best tracks? Cemetry Gates, Bigmouth, There Is A Light.
Really great. Lots of hits and fun nostalgic listen.
High school me would have loved this. I'm not quite as emo anymore but still a fun listen.