Reviews (page 11 of 18)
- biased going in because cora loves the smiths and when I'd originally tried them I wasn't a fan - First song is okay! The genre is definitely an 80s version of Hotel Mira or some of the other bands I listen to now -frankly mr shankly is super catchy Favorite Songs: Frankly, Mr Shankly The Boy with the Thorn in his Side
"There is a Light That Never Goes Out" is a bop. I think maybe I would have liked this in high school, but now it mostly sounds like a bunch of indistinct melodrama.
it's ok
THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS HE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS THE SMITHS
I liked this album. The music is upbeat and I liked the vocals. A nice voice. None of the songs jumped out at me as being fantastic, though.
nice
Pop punk, new wave and rock and roll all rolled into one. What a fantastic album. I don't know this one as well as I should. I've listened through twice today, very easy to listen to in detail or let it run in the background.
Reminds me of 500 days of summer...mmmmm Zoey
Classic the smiths. Good album.
The Smiths are an excellent band and very easy listening. Enjoyed listening to this album over the weekend while doing yard work.
Perfect
There are better Smiths albums, despite how full of classics that this album is, but it's still brilliant.
Obligatory “fuck Morrissey” but I honestly didn’t hate this.
Words are clear and can be understood, story-like telling album.
Bigmouth Strikes Again is an amazing song. Musically the rest of the album is great, but Morrissey's blase singing takes away from quite a few of the tracks.
- Not sure I have ever heard a Smiths track, well enough a whole album. Not surprised that this is what Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel are fans of in "500 Days of Summer." - Not a fan of britpop, which this apparently influenced, so not a shocker that I felt this was fine. The sound is fine. The tones are fine. I would not turn it off, but I would never seek it out either. - Marr's jangly guitar is fine. Morrisey's vocals are take or leave. - "Cemetary Gates" is clearly the best track, though somebof the backing on "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out" is interesting.
i’ve heard this album so many times over the years and coming back i still pick up on new things. this is essential listening for every moody teenager. the best smiths album with the best writing, the best songwriting and structures, and the best morrissey had to offer vocally before he inevitably fell off for being such a loser.
kan rigtig godt lide det her, meget godt :D :D
Lot’s of depth there. Forgot how good these fellas were.
Excellent! The Smiths never made a bad song.
🤡
so bright and so jangly it’s too much for me
Typically a highly rated album on most critic’s list but I just feel like this album alright. A moody Morrissey is heartbroken. Lyrically and musically this album doesn’t seem to push any boundaries.
Emotional, iconic, well written, well produced , and an overall classic. Makes me want to wear a T-shirt with their name on it and walk around a grocery store.
I really liked that part when he said “Queen Elizabeth with die on September 8th 2022”. Such a visionary. This is a fantastic album.
Solid
Ohhh...
Once again: Too nice for punk, too indie for easy listening, too silent for rock. Not impressive for me.
I still enjoy Strangeways, Here We Come more than this album, but there’s some great songs on here. Stand outs for me are “The Queen Is Dead”, “Never Had No One Ever”, “Bigmouth Strikes Again”, and my favorite on the album “There is a Light That Never Goes Out”. All the songs here are great and I wouldn’t skip any, except maybe “Vicar in a Tutu”. The first three Smiths albums have a rawness to them that I can completely understand why people might favor them but for me I love how they refined their songwriting, performances and production for their final album Strangeways. For that reason I give this one a 3.5.
Hey look, another The Smiths album! No need to repeat what I have already said about them. There is a Light That Never Goes Out is my favorite on this one. I look forward to listening to the rest of their albums in the coming weeks, lol.
The Smiths often sway, but this opener ROCKS! And at 6 minutes, they really want to make a statement right out of the gate. I'm not sure if the bass playing is more inspired or turned up in the mix more, but it is consistently the instrumental highlight on this album for me, moving melodically throughout the songs while the guitar lines mostly consist of frantic strumming and quick chord changes. Morrissey finally pulls at my heart strings in "I Know It's Over," finally pushing beyond the relaxed, disconnected croon of his comfortable range and pushing a wailing moan towards the end: "Oh Mother, I can feel the soil falling over my head!" It is a highlight of the album, along with "Cemetary Gates" and "The Boy with the Thorn in His Side." Confident in their sound, they apply it to reggae on "Frankly, Mr. Shankly," a longing RnB of "I Know It's Over," a country shuffle of "Vicar in a Tutu," and a post-punk "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others" reminiscent of The Cure's "Fire in Cairo" and "Play for Today" (done 6-7 years previously, I might add). I'm happy to hear such a variety in the approach to their sound, which consistently stamps their brand on any genre they touch and then transcend. Whatever The Smiths do, they make it their own.
Did anyone else ever hear the rumor that Morrissey had castrated himself? I don't know how widespread this little urban legend was, which I heard as a teenager, but I think it must have been someone mistakenly–or purposely–embellishing Morrissey's self-professed voluntary celibacy. I was only reminded of this because he used the word “castration” in the jumping anti-monarchy first track. I think it's funny that someone who constantly asserted to generally not really be attracted to others could thoroughly imbue a song with such convincing tortured longing, particularly of the adolescent romantic variety. He's practically the poster boy for it! This is well illustrated in, “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out.” Then again, in the following track come the lines, “From the ice-age to the dole-age, There is but one concern, I have just discovered, Some girls are bigger than others” Huh?? Hmm. Oh! But the longing soon returns, “send me your pillow, the one that you dream on, and I'll send you mine…” Anyway, enough about Morrissey. Let's talk about Johnny Marr and this music. I just love it! It's pop-y rock, yet without any hint of plasticity, emotionally expressive and creative without becoming self-indulgent, varied enough to not become stale, but never losing its sense of self. Top tune: “Bigmouth Strikes Again,” especially that energetic breakaway 2/3 into the song. But really I enjoyed them all.
I feel like this album and the first one we'd listened to were pretty similar. I really like the guitar sounds on this one as well, and Morrissey sounds like Morrissey. Some singers can morph and sound a bit different from record to record while still maintaining their vibe....Scott Weiland, Anthony Kiedis, Chino,.... Morrissey so far just does his thing,.sounding like himself. Again nice vocal tones, but I still feel like there could be some more variation given all the cool backing parts he is being given. I feel like the guitar parts on these Smiths albums really jump out at me and are really the core of the band. They really set the tone for everything else, and it's like Morrissey is almost a co pilot to the guitars rather than standing out front of them. I feel the same way with how Maynard fits into some Tool songs. This seems like an album where one would have to be in a certain mood to reach for it. The standouts to me are Frankly Mr. Shankly, Cemetery Gates and Big Mouth Strikes Again.
The Queen is Dead isn't a bad album by any means. Johnny Marr's guitar work shines, especially on tracks like "The Boy With the Thorn in His Side" and "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out." These songs are catchy and beautifully melancholic, capturing that classic Smiths vibe. However, Morrissey's lyrics can be a slog to get through. His signature mopey persona gets old after a while, and there's a pretentiousness that wears thin. Frankly, Morrissey sucks the joy out of some of these songs with his constant negativity. So, it's a mixed bag. Great music, bummer lyrics. For that, The Queen is Dead gets a decent 3 out of 5 stars.
I fucking hate Morrissey and I think most people who love the Smiths feel that way. Nevertheless! This is definitely an essential spin for anyone who can appreciate a good tune and some riffs. Ignoring Morrissey is one of the best things in the world because Johnny Marr exists. I listened to the 2011 remaster and it sounds great. The thing about the early Smiths is it was a bit of a mess but they manage to make the songs work and have that quintessential Sound. There are a ton of great documentaries about this era of the Smiths too but I digress. This band is fuckin BRITISH. The title track kicks things off nicely and then you have Frankly Mr Shankly which tells some stupid story which is classic Smiths. Half the lyrics are lifted from literature and poetry but Moz was always the first to admit it so there you go. Hating Morrissey aside, I like this record a lot but it’s not my favorite. It is a great record in their discography, though, so anyone with even a slight interest in British music will need to listen to this. And of course we know the hits from this one, Bigmouth Strikes Again and There Is A Light That Never Goes Out, but they don’t have a lot of filler here either. Go buy a Johnny Marr record now. Dude still kills it AND he’s way less fascist than Steven lmao.
So, I'm almost 40, grew up in hardcore, and this is the first time ever listening to The Smiths on my own. It's fine. The instrumentation is good. What the fuck is with some of these lyrics? I don't know if it's bias or not, but it feels to me like Morrissey is inauthentic with his vocal delivery. Like, he actually thinks he has a bighead, because he does, but then he plays it down, because he thinks he's just that smart? Fuck Morrissey.
Ugh... Another one that is tough to separate from opinions I formed a lifetime ago. A single track here that borderlines on wanting to rock, but mostly it's all sad-boi jangly bullshit with some nonce crooning over the top. Never understood the hype here. Oh, and lest I forget, fuck Morrissey straight to hell.
Some decent stuff by Johnny Marr, but just can't stand Morrissey's whingy, monotone voice and (some) appalling lyrics! Really fail to see what the appeal is. Another one for the 1001 albums not to listen to again before I die.
Unfortunately great
1. queen iz dead - 1.5 2. frankly - 0 3. itz over - 1.5 4. had no one - 2 5. gatez - 0 6. big mouth - 1 7. the boy - 0 8. vicar - 1 9. a light - 1.5 10. zome girlz - 1
80s British Rock album with no hits. Fine.
Bought this (on vinyl) in my teens and still have it. It’s an album I can listen to in my head. I’m completely incapable of giving it an unbiased review, such is the presence that this has been in my life. It’s almost like a member of the family, one stuck in the 80’s with floppy hair. Thins has also made me cogitate on the permanence of vinyl. Does its fragility make us look after it? Is it because noone has a record player in their car thus records never have the torture of being thrown into the footwell of the passenger seat and having to fight it out with other car detritus? Either way I still own some pretty shitty records but have lost / disposed of many great CDs
Ah, time for the Smiths debate (and I suspect this won’t be the only album on this list). So, Morrisey himself is obvs a massive bellend, but he is a wonderful singer and lyricist and for me is everything good about The Smiths. Without him I think they would be utterly middle of the road forgettable 80s indie and no-one would ever have heard of Jonny Marr (genuinely don’t understand why he is rated at all), let’s face it the music itself isn’t really very interesting. Given this I’m not a massive fan other than the more well known numbers. This album only seems to have a couple of those on it. Bigmouth Strikes Again is quality so I’ll give this album a generous 3.
I never went all in with the Smiths, always suspected he might be a nazi and possibly responsible for the cardigan craze of my youth. However this has four genuine classics, great for a mix tape and always had time for marr's jingly jangly riffs. Some dross on here though that can't be excused.
The opener is still my joint-favourite The Smiths song alongside their other sonic outlier, How Soon Is Now. The idiotic, arch rhyme of Frankly Mr Shankly camouflages it as potentially the album’s weak link, but with all its nasty cleverness, the title line is a taunt to the audience as much to the addressee. Andy Rourke dominates throughout; he’s up there with Entwistle in elevating the force of a pop band with a prowling bottom end. I have one other observation. Most of the time, Morrissey’s addressing someone else, usually critically, often cruelly. The antipathy isn’t remarkable: it’s a common tool in surviving social life. But his refusal or perhaps inability to consider another’s perspective interests me. He is bitingly incisive with his observations, but appears to lack any empathy or acknowledgement of an inner life of his characters, who might as well be dolls or cut-outs in his solipsistic universe. I fear Morrissey and would never want to be trapped in a mine or Andean place crash site with him, as in a survival situation, I am sure he would see me as food and lap meat from my fingers.
[EDIT - I first got this assigned on Sep 9, 2022, which was nice] I grew up with this album and various Smiths singles of the period - Smash Hits loved 'em and who was I to argue? Oh, the thrill of catching a bit of "Bigmouth Strikes Again" on The Chart Show (perhaps with "Sledgehammer" or "Happy Hour" in the same episode). Still my favorite album of theirs, but now I can appreciate both how great the backing work is (once again, Andy Rourke is incredible) and what a twat Morrissey was/became. So incredibly accomplished, a lot of depth behind the great tunes. Solid five, of course
The Queen is Dead is a great opener. I Know It's Over hits a little too hard lol. Great guitar in the second half of the record. Some Girls are Bigger than Others is a great song, maybe Light should have been the closer but it's great. Very enjoyable and I think this will take many more listens and many more years to fully appreciate this album. Could see it going up to a 5 eventually.
Short but was very enjoyable.
As a follow up to Meat is Murder and Hatful of Hollow (which are kind of the same but different) The Queen is Dead hits all the right notes. You have Johnny Marr's jangly guitars turned up plus Morrissey's morose whining tuned down. Some songs, such as Cemetary Gates and Frankly Mr. Shankly, are downright upbeat. Even the sadder or angrier songs, such as Bigmouth Strikes Again or The Boy with the Thorn in His Side, are fine tunes. While there is no giant of a song like How Soon is Now?, it is full of great songs and better production. Definitely an album any Smiths fan, 80s fan, or music lover should have.
I love being a hater
Not my thing but love Johnny Marr
I love this album. Grew up listening to it.
driving down a coastal road probably would’ve added to the experience
Not much on today and this album didn't prompt me to get going either. Bigmouth Strikes again has an oddly tiktok-y nightcore voice going on which was entertaining. I enjoyed it but not as much as Adam would approve of oops
Good album.
I’m not a fan- but it’s still good.
Top tier incel music! 5/5
its fine, nothing special. also fuck Morrissey
I know I'm supposed to love it, but I just don't get it
What can I say, this is one of my favorite albums. I like every second of it.
Reminds me of High School and the kids who loved dockers and rolled up jeans. The Smiths are very good clearly maybe not exactly for me. This is still a good album clearly.
It was okay.
Not exactly what I was wanting on a bright and sunshine-filled Friday morning - dreary moody emo rock from Morrissey and The Smiths - but I enjoyed this much more than I was expecting to.
This was OK moody 80s synth-pop. My first full listen to anything by them.
Every song had a way to pull you back in before changing it. At times this felt like a 3 while others it felt like a 5.
Grew on me. First few tracks were dull but by Cemetary Gates I was in
Sabor de ensino medio
Je pense sincèrement que The Smith, avec leur cousin consanguin The Cure, sont les bands britanniques les plus overrated ever.
Good effort 3.4
It’s no Angel Dust!
I like The Smiths. I’m not sure if that’s because I grew up watching 500 Days of Summer or because I really love “Panic,” which is not on this iconic album. Overall, I’ll never be mad that any of these songs are playing in a coffee shop. I love the vibe. I’m taking one star away because Morrissey’s voice gets old after awhile.
Surprisingly upbeat at times with the classic Morrissey/Marr sound.
Enjoyed this album
6/10. Beginning of the album was boring and not my thing. Was leaning 3-4 at the beginning of the album but it picked up. Enjoyed some of the later songs that were higher paced and slightly different singing style.
I once knew this guy who was whiny and soft and I didn’t like him and he loved the Smiths and now when I listen to the Smiths I can’t tell if I don’t like them because they remind me of him or if it’s because I just don’t like them but I think it’s because I just don’t like them because they too are whiny and soft.
I don’t hate this album as much as I used to, even if morissey is still way too whiney. This probably hit super hard if you were a British teen back then. The instrumental composition is really good. The fact that this got a 3 out of me is saying a lot. It just makes me want to listen to Brand New. Similar amounts of whiney crooning
Kind of a silly one. The Smiths defintely are an acquired taste for me, but I have acquired it. Oddly the album takes off at the midway point instead of petering out. I think "Cemetary Gates" is where the album kicks in and it soars relatively consistently after that. "There is a Light That Never Goes Out" is a great track. I'd like to see The Cure cover that one. I respect Morrissey's style and Johnny Marr's technique. It's a unique album. I would listen to some of these again, but I don't think I understand completely what The Smith's are saying with this album. I guess it's a punk-esque rebellion from the modern day Britain and the monarchy? Based on the silliness of the beginning and some unclarity, I give this one a 3.5 that I'll round up to 4 stars.
Great album, found the lyrics to be hilarious at times and the musicianship top-notch. The Smiths aren’t the best band that ever came out of Manchester (that would be The Fall) but they are pretty damn good.
This is supposedly the best smiths album but I’ve found there’s no album of there’s that I like the whole way through apart from hatful of hollow which was more of a compilation. This has some great songs on it though. Andy Rourke is as iconic a musician as Johnny Marr. His basslines are some of the most memorable ever written and it is so sad he had a difficult life tragically died before his time.
Again having to rate the performers for being terrible people. 1.
I can understand putting one album by The Smiths on here. This would not be the album I would pick. Also, obligatory fuck Morrissey. Relevance to this list: 1/1 Personal enjoyment: 2/1
Magnificent
One of my favourites albums. I get why a lot of people can't get behind Morrissey's vocals (let alone how much of a prick he is) but this is one of the few albums to me that have no skips. 'Frankly, Mr. Shankly' is underrated and I'll die on this hill.
I didn’t hate it
This 5 is for Johnny marr I promise!!
I wasn't around in the 80s so I have no idea why everything thinks Morrissey is an asshole, but man do I like The Smiths. The lyrics are surprisingly clever and laced with a dry sense of humor. My favorites on this album got to be There is a Light That Never Goes Out, The Boy with the Thorn In His Side, and I Know It's Over. The music in the background also goes pretty hard with the guitarist and bassist casually crushing it. It's easy to overlook, but the last 60 seconds of Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others accentuates this musical talent. Great album.
Well, Morrissey isn't regarded as one the great song writers for nothing. But it's Johnny Marr that keeps the attention with simple, yet beautiful guitar melodies. When you're hooked on the hooks and intrigued by the lyrics, you're probably listening to The Smiths or a band influenced by The Smiths (or The Cure). The Queen is Dead is the epitome. "I Know It's Over" is a classic.
Freakin love The Smiths. LOVE this album. How can something be so melancholy yet so full of whimsy? Such clever music. Morrissey is a prick of a person, but it's a case of having to separate the art from the artist, because my god, his voice and lyrics are incredible.
morbid, and sometimes samey, but i liked the songs i knew
37 minutes of light hearted waffle
Can be generic the music it self , his voice does carry in my opinion very unique. The songs feels like you’re in a film especially whilst on the train feels like you’re in a indie romance film.
There is a light that never shines carried this album hard. 4/5
Lots of Morrissey hate in the reviews, well he probably is a giant asshat and extremely limited as a singer. And like most of the music associated with him this too is mostly "Music to Commit Suicide By" Despite all these problems I didn't hate this.
80’s New Age shite.
Journey through dissatisfaction and melancholia.
Fantastic album by an iconic group.
Always a classic love the smiths, I know their discography well but had never listened to it unskipped.
first impression: disgustingly british. vocals are peculiar and take some time getting used to. starts mid but picks up around halfway, by the time it ended I was left wanting more.
meh
'80s goodness and I still really like it
It’s like a album composed of many different versions of a song
3.5 *
Listened to it on Friday, it’s now Monday & can’t remember much about it !
Another belter album from them, what a way to end the week
The Smiths are always sort of polarizing. Or maybe it's just Morrissey that is polarizing and that gets projected onto the band. With these reviews I try to just focus on this one album in isolation, without regards to the individual members of the band or what else they have done or said. It's hard sometimes, but I do my best. Honestly I don't get the hate for the music from The Smiths. Even if it isn't quite to your taste, it's smart, well crafted, well played, and well sung. This album in particular ticks all those boxes. Some killer guitar work on this album as well, though sometimes you really have to listen for it. All in all, I think this album would be like a 3.75 for me. While I enjoy The Smiths style, it's not something I would want to listen to all the time. But when you're in the mood for it, it kills.
Pleasantly surprised by this album. Morissey still sucks though
Some songs I really liked, and others I really didn't. 3/5
The first Smiths record I’ve actually liked. Good hooks and clever songwriting with a reach that doesn’t exceed its grasp.
This album was a pleasant surprise. Despite being a child of the '80s, I was not really familiar with the Smiths, and I was expecting this to be much more drone-y. Would absolutely listen again.
super
great!
I quite liked the music, it was nice to listen to it
I see the smiths I rate 5
Titel en jaartal lieten me al in elkaar duiken toen ik het eerste nummer opzette, maar... mwah, dit is eigenlijk nog best te trekken. Jarentachtigmuziek, lijzige zang, maar toch wel met enige muzikaliteit gemaakt. En sommige meiden zijn nou eenmaal groter dan andere.
We kregen al eerder het eerste album van The Smiths. Daar hikte ik toen nogal tegenaan vanuit de vrees voor Panic-achtige klanken. Maar wat werd ik verrast. Het bleek best een aardig album zonder de overdreven jaren '80 klanken die ik van deze band kende. Nu dus het tweede album. Hik ik er toch weer tegenaan. Krijgen we die Panic-narigheid dan nu alsnog? Néé! Gelukkig niet. Dit is weer een kwaliteitsalbum. Niet helemaal mijn smaak met wat suffige zeurende zang. Maar ook dat kan veel gekker. Ik duik nu toch even internet op. Zie ie dat er 3 van de 4 albums van The Smiths in de lijst staan. Juist het album met dat Panic staat er niet in. Hulde voor de samenstellers!! 3,5 sterren
We hebben het hier vaak over jengelende Britse zeurstemmen. Morrissey is er daar een van. Wat een ongelooflijke zeiksnor is die gast, met zijn jankerige stem. Het overheerst compleet de muziek, waar op zichzelf niks mis mee is. The Smiths is zo'n band waar je het beste de verzamelaar van kan luisteren denk ik. Ze hebben prima hitjes namelijk, maar de overige liedjes op de albums zijn over het algemeen maar opvulling, niemendalletjes, vergeetbaar. En als we het over vergeetbare muziek hebben, dan komen we vaak op een vergeetbare 3 uit. Dat komt wel voornamelijk door het tweede gedeelte, want daar zitten dus wat hitjes, die het zeer matige eerste deel compenseren.
It's a little too BritPop-py. Sleeping music that you can sway to. I like the instruments but generally not the music. "Bigmouth Strikes Again" has a decently interesting bass line and overall vibe, but I don't really like the mousey voice that's singing along with the main singer. "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" I actually kinda know this song. Maybe cuz it's in 500 days of summer (which I've never seen). And the bass line is good. It's pretty okay. But I'd rather not really hear it.
Peak smiths. Varied music and brilliant funny and poignant lyrics.
It took me a couple of tries to get through this. It's not that it's bad; I have a hard time engaging with The Smiths' music. It just doesn't compel me. But it is better than the Morrissey solo album I got recently and has "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out," an undeniable all-timer, on its tracklist, so I can't hate it. I understand why people would like this record, but it's not for me. Highlights: Bigmouth Strikes Again, There is a Light That Never Goes Out
It's like listening to the same song over and over again for an hour. Pretty bad in my opinion.
Not for me
Okay thank you for the suggestion, but it just wasn't for me. Can only give it 2 stars.
ni me acuerdo de este album pero al voz del vocalista siempre va a ser un embole
Love it. "I Know It's Over" is one of my all-time favourites by The Smiths. Of course, "Big Mouth Strikes Again" and "There is a Light That Never Goes Out" are classics too.
Can't get enough of The Smiths
This one takes a while to warm up (if you could ever accuse Morrissey of warming up) but from Bigmouth onwards, this is a great album. 3.5 stars but rounding up to 4 Frankly, Mr, Shankly can get in the bin
Idk about some girls are bigger than others, just gonna pretend it isn’t about boobs. But still freaking great.
A lot of bops on this album. The musicianship is top tier and having not listened to The Smiths much I was surprised by how funny the album was. Also is that last track supposed to be about titties??? 4.2
Some really great tracks on here (“I Know It’s Over,” “Never Had No One Ever,” “Cemetery Gates,” and “There is a Light That Never Goes Out”), but some of the others were meh (“Vicar in a Tutu” “Frankly, Mr. Shankly”).
I mean come on! One of my favorite bands of all time
"There is a light that never goes out" is one of my favorite songs to come out of the 80s. Perfectly captures the air of desperation and despair that can be a backdrop for love and friendship. To me it carries the album and what a heavy load because unless you are a Smiths fan, the rest of it can sound pretentious, flat, and unremarkable.
I’ve never been a huge fan of the Smiths but this album was awesome
Standard disclaimer that I can't stand Morrissey - however, he and the rest seem to be taking themselves less seriously on this album. The result makes it better than the rest of the Smiths/Morrissey output that I've been subject to on this list so far.
Jangly guitar after jangly guitar but.....some very good songs. I've always liked 'Frankly Mr. Shankly!'. Well worth a listen.
The second half is absolute class, first half is 4/5 so I have to give this 4/5 overall.
It’s a pretty good album. I love Louder then Bombs though more. There is no mistaking the smith’s sound. I would listen to this one again.
Pretty bleh. Unimpressed and wouldn't listen to again
-I love the smith - sorry ? - i said I love the smith Bah Tom mon grand ton album est chouette mais de la a avoir le coup de foudre bof Pardon mais on en parle de ''some girls are bigger than others'' ?? C'est ça le lyrical prodigy ??
4 for the album. 1 for the lead singer.
I enjoyed this album a lot. I've never listened to The Smiths before, but the lead singer has an incredibly unique voice. Seems like a major sad boy though.
johnny f'n marr
Perfect
I just don’t know I can’t get into the smiths
Not my favorite smiths, but too many bangers for it not to be a 5
My favorite Smiths album. It comes out roaring with the drums and bass of the title track before going into the bouncier Frankly Mr. Shankly. Nice guitar work from Marr throughout, ranging from aggressive to jangly. Good basslines throughout as well. Some classic songs here, particularly “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out.” It’s got sad boy emo but also silliness and lightheartedness to it. Morrissey actually has a good sense of humor here with a tinge of self-loathing. The Smiths at the top of their game.
3.5 Okay, The Smiths might have grown on me since Meat is Murder. Much more enjoyable album and Morissey's vocals didn't annoy me as much here. Should listen again but wouldn't come back to The Smiths outside of this project
Mid city
first album i feel like i have trouble rating not because i love it so particularly much in fact ive never listened to it in full before but because i have so many emotional associations with the songs i HAVE heard it's hard to tell if i love them or hate them. 4 stars really but for the sake of myself age 17 i'll say 5.
Something about this album catches me in the right way, and the vocals are very appealing to my ears.
unnötig.
Iconic album that served as a template for so many bands that came later. I don't think I ever appreciated how much the Stone Roses took from this for example. There's some very, very high points, where I'm tempted to stick a gladioli down the back of my pants and sway around a bit. There's a few lower points where it doesn't quite work, but this is possibly because the good bits are just so extremely good?
Roger Morris’s and band make good music together. Enjoyable music.
Another damn Morrissey album. I don’t get it. Am I missing something? Am I just unable to comprehend his genius? Is he really so great that he deserves 5+ albums on here? No. No he doesn’t. I pray that I won’t have to hear his voice again, but I’m sure I will in time. The album’s technically fine, it’s ok, I’m just sick of hearing this man’s voice. An imperfectly mid album. 5/10 Top 1: 1. The Queen Is Dead
This grew on me. Liked it more than I expected. The drums were awesome in the first song.
Meh. 2/5
My only regret is not finding this album in time to match my teenage angst in high school. Music: 10 Vocals: 10 Lyrics: 6
The only familiar track was There Is a Light That Never Goes Out (which I’m pretty sure I only know from the 500 Days of Summer soundtrack…). I really like that song and very much enjoyed the rest of the album too. Probably 3.5-3.75 rounded up to 4.
Thought this was much better than it was. Saw them with my sister in the mid-80’s in Massachusetts. Maybe it was another of their albums I quite liked. This was decent, just nothing spectacular. Sold my copy of this in July of 2017 for $40.
Obviously I love these sad bois.
good vibes but every song sounds the same
Facile.
I just don't like Morrissey
couple of zingers but mostly dross
Not terrible, but quite monotonous and jangly. best I can do is 3 stars and probably won't listen again.
Always loved this album. This was before Morrissey became insufferable. Really strong guitar and bass throughout. Lyrically every song has at least one brilliant zinger.
- the queen is dead is i don’t remember/10 so probably smth like 5.5/10 - frankly, mr shanklybwas decidely unpleasant 3/10 - i know its over is 7/10 everything after that was an average of 6.5/10 giving a total of something like 6.1/10 which is 3/5 stars
I love this album and have done for a while. It’s the smiths at their best creating the most melancholy atmosphere with such awesome songs. I do not like some girls are bigger than others though. That’s the only one
Going to be a bit of a hater here but not really for me it was alright but not really my sort of jam and i didnt really enjoy it to much overall id give it a 6/10. I know a lot of people like this one but its just not really for me which is a shame. Ill try and come back to this at some point it may grow on me. Sorry joe
loved ut
Another album that was more enjoyable than I thought it would be. Vocals can be pretty whiny Brit-pop at times but a solid and unique album. 6/10 (3/5)
I really like the Smiths. I feel like when I think of the 80s I think of this band. This album was super short and sweet. All the songs are fun and move along pretty quickly. I wouldn't say it's anything revolutionary for me, but it still was great. Favorite track was Bigmouth Strike Again. Did not add to my Spotify library.
All 80s British rock sounds the same to me. The tune itself is generally upbeat but the lyrics are them complaining about how the Duke of Canterbury sneezed or something. The Smiths made some of the better 80s British rock. I prefer when morrisey went solo. Solid move to end the album on a song about fat chicks and their moms. Favorite Song - There is a light that never goes out Least Favorite Song- some girls are bigger then others
Not a massive smiths fan but it was a solid album. Can always get into that guys singing voice. I jsut need a smiths gf to my Radiohead bf
This is a very 80s album. However, where some 80s albums have character, this one lacked in any umph. The main focus of every song was the vocals, but they were extremely lack luster in performance. I tried to find songs I liked, though where I may have liked a singular line of the song, the rest of the song was not hitting the mark. Needless to say, I will not be listening to this again.
At the age of 27, Morrissey discovered that women vary in both height and weight. The Smiths always have this weird jittery sad energy in their songs, and for the most part I enjoy it. Usually have some pretty interesting melodies and this album is no different. Shoutout to Andy Rourke, the bass player, some really cool things happening there. Highlights: Frankly Mr. Shankly Never had No One Ever Cemetery Gates Vicar in a Tutu
Ehhh
1.8
No me gustó mucho aparte de las famosas xd, y la última
A light that never goes ours is memorable of course and fine otherwise. I wonder how brits reacted to the album title
I don't understand how this is particularly good rock.
ngl pretending I’m listening in an elevator Favorites: Cemetery Gates, Bigmouth Strikes Again, The Boy with the Thorn in His Side, There is a Light That Never Goes Out
His ass will never know how joan of arc felt…
AND IF A DOUBLE DECKER BUSSSSSSS Fav Tracks : I Know its Over Cemetry Gates The Boy With the Thorn in his Side There is a Light that Never Goes Out Some Girls are Bigger Than Others
Bigmouth and there is a light are rly good songs The rest is pretty good but not gr8 7/10
Great album from start to finish, not my favourite Smiths album but there isn't much I don't like by the smiths
The Smiths will always have a fond place in my heart. The romantic crooning of Morrissey embodies my high school angst. What I appreciate most is their melodic instrumentation, as opposed to the synth'd, electronic 80's sound. They capture the vibe of the decade while playing traditional instruments. The Queen Is Dead features some favorites, including Frankly Mr. Shankly and Bigmouth, but the pièce de résistance will always be Some Girls are Bigger than Others. In its stark simplicity, Morrissey states his neutral observation of the female form... and its a damn catchy tune.
Album was so short that I gave it a 2nd listen and while I’ve struggled to connect with The Smiths in the past, this is a pretty solid album. It won’t make my favorite rotation but I did enjoy the dark humor that is throughout. My favorites were “Bigmouth Strikes Again”, “Frankly, Mr Shankly”, and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”.
Great voice and bass player. Solid composition.
The Smiths weren't really all that great, but they were definitely considered that by some in their time. A bit too challenging to be a pure pop band, but they did fill a temporal void in alternative music between post-punk and grunge. For me, Morrisey pushes his poetic self-reflections too far. AndI realize that while it's part of the campiness, his vocal affectations obscure the songs' musical soul. Like putting too much mustard on a great sandwich. No matter how good all the other elements of the sandwich are, all you remember is that it was mustard. With the Smiths, you have to like mustard A LOT.
so good
morrissey is my bitch
Completely unexpectedly loved this album! Got into it from the first track and everything that followed was brilliant.
If you like Indie-Pop you're right here.
I really enjoyed this album! I would give it a 4.5, round up.
honestly, despite the fact that this is unequivocally a classic i wasn't expecting to like it as much as i did. i've heard an adequate amount of the smiths, but i never bothered to really dive into their discography- the only full album i've heard of theirs was probably this one, a few years back. bigmouth strikes again helped me get into music seriously, but a lot of their stuff struck me as melodramatic and arrogant. and admittedly, that is what it is, but it's also really good! morrissey (despite being a total dickwad) has a beautiful voice, the writing is evocative, and i just love some good jangle pop, really. those strings, the tone of the guitars, and the occasional experimentation with the production, like on some girls are bigger than others- it all works really harmoniously. 9/10, fav tracks: never had no one ever, cemetry gates, bigmouth strikes again, there is a light that never goes out, some girls are bigger than others
Morrissey is the OG crooner, and I love crooning vocals. Solid guitar work and a cohesive, tight listing of tracks make this an enjoyable and highly replayable listening. Fav track: I Know It's Over
One really likeable song. The band has a decent sound, but Morrissey's whining vocals are a bit much most of the time. "Some Girls are Bigger than Others" is one of the dumbest songs I've ever heard.
Not my favorite.
"I know it's over, and it never really began, but in my heart it felt so real. And you even spoke to me, and said: "If you're so funny, then why are you on your own tonight?"" Upon my first listen, The Queen Is Dead torn out my heart and had me sobbing. Hell, "I Know It's Over" is directly responsible for the breakdown of my relationship. I quoted to him "Love is natural and real, but not for such as you and I, my love," and he didn't even respond. It was then I came to the stark realization that we weren't meant to be. Morrissey: Breaking up two lovers intwined since 1986. "The Queen Is Dead" is probably one of the most well-crafted albums of it's time, complete with Marr's melodic guitar melodies and Morrissey's poetic woes. An absolute masterpiece, regardless of who Morrissey is as a human being, this album is an epiphany for what I consider ultimate music: Raw and gritty, desolate, yet achingly tender and poetic.
Ugh
Fuuuuuuuckkk Morrissey for the third time (but this one is the best Smiths record)
Absolutely stunning!!! 💯 I love them ❤️
Like the lyrics
only saved a few songs but good listen, enjoyed this album more than strangeways, here we come.
Not a big fan of Morrissey as a vocalist. But I can hear and respect the influence they had on other bands of their era, and those to come after.
Ok, The Smiths. Yet another band I was aware of but never really listened to. I can see that young Lisa would not have been into this sound but older Lisa kind of likes it and definitely appreciates it. Sure the lyrics can be weird, but I still find it more interesting to listen to than when the same lyrics get repeated over and over. I listened to this album 3x and it got better with each listen. I thought of this as a post punk sound. I do find fitting the description I read of Morrissey as "half genius half buffoon". I really liked the first 3 tracks, after which it was hit or miss but still overall listenable.
I mean, it's good if you like Morrissey's singing. I can only handle so much of it.
An era-defining album. When I think of British rock in the 80s bands like The Smiths and Joy Division are the first to come to mind and this is the album that I think of as peak The Smiths. That kind of haunting vocal presentation, springy basslines, jangly guitar, and buckets of reverb for atmosphere became the signature of this album, this band, and this era. Catchy and quirky hooks. Songwriting is simple and straightforward. The Queen is Dead, Bigmouth Strikes Again, and The Boy With the Thorn in his side are the standouts for me. Solid album all around and you can hear the sounds that are still influencing bands and albums to this day. Listened to in the Yanyin Mahinas through the Fiio BTR3 first time around.
I know I am old.....I could listen to this, just did not get much out of it. Tired of all the British stuff.
<usual Morrissey-is-a-knob disclaimer here/> Phenomenal record. Excellent musicianship. Crisp production. Great lyrics; some poignant, some funny, some daft, nearly all interesting. I'm not a huge Smiths head but this is a really rewarding listen and so evocative of a certain sense of place and time.
joan of arc and oscar wilde would hate you bro! but great album
Eh, ok
“hE’s liTeRalLy mE” Objectively the best Smiths album. The Boy with the Thorn in His Side is probably one of my favorite Smiths songs.
3,5
I love The Smiths
Really looking forward to listening to this album. Never listened to a The Smiths album all the way through. Just know how legendary they are and Morrissey is. Not really my kind of music. Definitely respect him and the Smiths, just not my style.
An 80's brit pop powerhouse of an album. With notably some of the best vocal melodies of its time. Morrissey's lyrics do hold a power of emotion within the bounds of any single track. While the lead section shines you cannot help at oogle at the raw power and prowess of the rythmn section. Any person who appreciates music and has an open mind can find this album pleasant.
This album reminds me of why I always say if I could live in any decade, it would be the 80s. Driving down the highway, top down with this music blasting and the purest of cocaine in my system. What a time to be alive!
E h Don’t like morriseys vocals. Maybe a bit repetitive and boring at times, but at the time of release it was probably ahead of its time
intereting
Lizzie's in a box best album 2022 Expected Lorenzo Rating: 2
Sorry but sweet. Enjoyed it more than I expected to.
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
It took a real visionary like Morrissey to see the truth that the Queen would in fact die one day
one song is good, but too similar.
Sorry can't stand the Smith's as I didnt spend my youth being melancholy in student digs with floppy hair and a crippling sense of injustice. Morrisey a twat as as well which doesn't help.
I've always enjoyed The Smiths, and this album has got some particularly good tracks with "I Know it's Over" being my favourite song by the group.
RIP Morrissey you would have loved 2014 tumblr
I concur with my fathers points. It didn't hit me on any emotional level or connection. I Just super disliked it. Only reason I'm giving it a 2 is that the bass work was really good
Much better than other albums from the Smiths and Morrissey on this list, outright musical at times. Two stars!
This is one of those bands that I just simply don't understand it's massive support. The singing is unpleasant, the songs are largely similar. I just don't find anything about it amusing or pleasant. By the end of the album, I appreciate the band's contributions, but Morrissey is so whiney, I just want to hate everything about it.
Boring, droning, pretentious, British.
That’s true
It might have been something in the 80s, but now I can imagine it being playing in the background at a department store. Forgettable.
not the biggest smiths fan, but i get why people would be
A classic. Self-conscious melodrama; fundamentally silly, bouncy, fun.
Pretty boring.
An absolute classic and brilliance from the drums to the bass to guitars and vocals. Even though "Strangeways, Here We Come" is my favorite Smiths album, "The Queen is Dead" is arguably more listenable for most people and repeated listening. I could listen to this album every month and not get bored with it. I absolutely love it.
Not for me
Liked this so much more than Meat Is Murder. The whole thing is a little up its own arse to really love, but if you put it in and forget whose singing, you find yourself enjoying parts of it.
Not a good start. The singer's voice is awful to listen to and makes me want to fall asleep or throw up. A couple of the songs where he isn't whining too much are ok. 2 songs made my playlist that were more upbeat. A better singer would have made the album alright, although a couple of the songs can't be saved. The intro song got me ready for what was to come. D Tier. Moving on.
This was pretty fun I enjoyed their unique sound. My favorite was “Bigmouth Strikes Again.”
Not quite my tempo
I've definitely heard the smiths, but never 'listened' to them. I not surprisingly, really enjoyed the album as a whole; it was a fun listen through. I feel like I can hear how they've influenced certain bands, and though it feels dated, I see why this album made the list.
Lo maravillosamente que cuentan la incomodidad, el amor, el deseo y la sensación de no encajar. Esta luz nunca se apagará. 4/5.
Easily one of the best albums of all time. This one comes out of the gates swinging - "Take me back to dear old Blighty" quickly giving way to drums that are taking no prisoners and an atmospheric whine that comes and goes, with a bass guitar that mumbles and groans under distorted guitars. This is England in the 80s. The real one. And we haven't even got past the first track yet. Hate Morrissey all you want, but don't let it blind you to the brilliance of this album. It's not just musically exceptional, but lyrically cutting, maudlin, hilarious, devastating - the best of Morrissey's work on display. The fact it tucks one of the best songs ever written (There is a Light) at the end of the album is a testament to how packed this thing is with statements. If you don't like this one, your opinion on music doesn't matter to me in the slightest, because you frankly haven't got one.
8.5/10 Highlights: There is a Light That Never Goes Out Some Girls Are Better Than Others The Boy with the Thorn in his Side The Queen is Dead Bigmouth Strikes Again Frankly Mr Shankly
knew a lot of these songs and thought i'd enjoy listening to all of them together more. morrissey just seems like such a drag. you gotta be in the right mood i guess
For men, the most important period for forming musical taste is between the ages of 13 to 16 according to the first article that came up on my Google search. Well, I had The Smiths Best Vol.’s 1 and 2 when I was in high school and wore those discs out I played them so much and so it’s hard for me to be unbiased when it comes to The Smiths. They are such a perfect band for a lonely, introverted, pretentious teenage boy. I’m so glad that The Smiths exist and that I had them to mope to during those prime time moping years. The Queen is Dead has an embarrassment of riches of great songs on it. “The Boy with the Thorn in His Side", "Bigmouth Strikes Again", "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out", “Cemetry Gates”. It’s insane. Morrissey was such an incredible lyricist (at this time at least) and Johnny Marr has a sound that is so unique and so fun to listen to. The two of them together are sublime. I love this band and I love this album.
Day 1 album, really? A classic of course and a favorite.
An acquired taste. Morressey's lyrics are simply dialog - just a guy talking about stuff.
I enjoyed the guitar playing and respect the album's place in the pantheon of RnR, but the vocal style wasn't for me. I won't be spinning this one on repeat, just not my flavor.
Bar 2 tracks, this is a flawless album. There is a light that never goes out is one of my favorite songs of all time… it represents one of the few cases when the artist’s most famous song is their best. Johnny Marr is in his creative peak here in my opinion.
Although a very popular band - I really only like a few songs.
frankly mr. shankly лириксы I know it's over дико smooth
Album is fantastic. Shame about Morrissey though.
Frankly, Mr Shankly
Some pretty good smooth listening
Wasn't terrible, but I kept finding myself wanting to put something else on, which is a problem when your album is only 37 minutes long. Plus, Morrissey is a certified douche canoe.
Very British. Great drums and guitar. Vocals that are sinuous and extended. Hooks. More hooks.
Amazing
Punchy, tight, and relentlessly catchy while managing to be unabashedly fractious, The Smith's 1986 release "The Queen is Dead" stands as one of the perfect examples of pop-rock and jangle pop aesthetics jumbled together to form a landmark release in 80s pop. Love him or hate him (I hate him), Morrissey's admittedly a great singer with the timbre of a Victorian-era teenage poet yearning for rebellion and companionship. This record has a subtle nocturnal vibe too as if a lot of the stories told here take place under a full moon. Whether that's him going on a walk with the prince on the anti-Royal family anthem that is the title track, or the graveyard smug-fest "Cemetary Gates" where the protagonist criticizes the shallow nature of his companion's poetry. The gorgeous, yet morbid hit off this album "There is a Light that Never Goes Out" with its incredible string-back chorus showcases the band at their most elegant and high-gloss. "I Know It's Over" is a longer ballad-type track primarily backed by gorgeous, yet skeletal acoustic strumming that builds and builds as Morrisey likens his loneliness to being buried alive. It's a slower track that builds with Morrisey's vocals near the end being some of my favorites of his. His lyrics on this track also showcase a self-aware nature with him criticizing one's over perception of their likability. I can't ignore the other members of the band. Andy Rourke's (RIP) basslines are so full and lively on all these tracks. My favorites have to be "There is a Light that Never Goes Out" and "Cemetary Gates". There's then obviously guitarist Johnny Marr whose psychedelic tone is essential in outlining this album's entire mood. Just listen to his guitar break on "Big Mouth Strikes Again", my favorite song. It's an explosive track criticizing the protagonist's inability to bite their tongue (a sentiment that has only since become more applicable to Morrisey himself). It's also worth mentioning the way the guitars are layered by Marr on the song "The Boy with the Thorn on His Side". You know, I had to listen to this album in the background when writing this because I feel like I have this album etched into my musical memory already and it just reminded me that I just love every song on this thing. That's all it comes down to really...every song on here is just really good (even the psychedelic and unsettling closer that usually gets a bad rep). Funnily enough, I can just as much understand why someone would find this album repulsive due to its, at times, cheesy nature.
Not my speed, it felt like maybe I wasn't on the right IQ level to enjoy it properly 😅
An enjoyable mix of moody, upbeat, jangly, sonorous, and smooth songs blended into a bang-up pop album. 4/5
The Smiths delineate a departure from synth-dominated 80's new wave, and a return to guitar-focused British rock. Their simple yet effects-tinged guitar sit nicely on top of a classic indie rock rhythm section, with bright bass and brisk drums, foreshadowing the genre but not quite defining it. The lyrics on the album are a real standout, mixing dry British humor with achingly profound statements, often in the same breath. The vocal melodies are a little lackluster, and tend to wander without firm doubling or emphasis, resulting in a blurring across the album. Ultimately, I enjoyed and appreciated the record, but it's genre-transitional timing and nature place it in the huge shadows of artists before and after. Stand out tracks include "Frankly, Mr. Shankly", "I Know It's Over", and "Cemetery Gates".
Not a very memorable album. Felt very much like I was being rick rolled the whole time.
A great album—clever and poetic
Not bad. I like There is a Light That Never Goes Out but not a huge fan of the rest.
Highlights: Frankly Mr Shankley, There's A Light That Never Goes Out, Vicar In A Tutu, The Queen is Dead. In a nutshell: Morrissey (and co) Lyrics are great, but I can barely hear the guitar on this album, even after switching headphones. Sometimes bass, definitely drums. I dream of the day where a remastered edition of all the Smiths albums are released. And instead of Morrissey being the loudest, a fairer mix of Johnny, Andy and Mike are heard. Overall: 6/10
1. 6/10 2. 7.5/10 3. 5/10 4. 7/10 5. 7.5/10 6. 7/10
"The Queen Is Dead" by The Smiths is a seminal album that encapsulates the band's signature blend of wit, melancholy, and social commentary. From the mournful opener to the playful closer, each song is a masterclass in lyrical storytelling and musical craftsmanship. Themes of alienation, longing, and disillusionment permeate the album, resonating with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Whether it's the sardonic wit of "Bigmouth Strikes Again" or the poignant yearning of "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out," every track offers a unique perspective on life's complexities. With its iconic melodies, incisive lyrics, and distinctively jangly guitar sound, "The Queen Is Dead" remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.
This is decent, not a huge fan.
Excellent eclectic rock. Plenty of melancholy to go around, accompanied by some truly ethereal singing and music composition. This contains a strong passion and ability to cut to the emotions.
i hate that i love it
It's easy to write The Smiths off as a sad boy band but this is an incredible album. I Know it's Over is one of my favourite songs. You can make fun of Morrissey forever but I like him a lot, think he's a great singer, and the band crushes it. The bass alone makes the album worth listening to.
Very new to The Smiths, so I was curious. The first thing that stood out to me is the bass player is just killing it on these tracks. Next was the cadence of the lyrics skipping, sprinting, walking. Cramming in the syllables. Like smoothly running through the woods not missing a stride all the while ducking and dodging. I think every song on here has appeal. Favorite song: Vicar in a tutu
Great, listen again
Given my reaction to other British bands from this era, I was braced for something utterly intolerable. I was pleasantly surprised and happily proven wrong. Poppier and bouncier than I expected. Sure there’s the appropriate amount of melancholy and angst. And I’m sure there are sad, thoughtful lyrics hidden in some of the brighter sounding songs. But this was a good listen and I’m pleased it came up. I’d never heard an album by the Smiths before, nor much of Morrissey’s solo material. So I didn’t have a clear vision of what to expect. This album rocks pretty hard in some places. Those moments are fast, punchy and punctuated with layered guitar sounds and steady bass that kept me intrigued and grooving. Really pleased this came up and will very happily give it 4 stars. Standout tracks: The Queen is Dead , Frankly, Mr. Shankly, Cemetry Gates, Bigmouth Strikes Again, Vicar in a Tutu
Sound of my youth
Solidno
favourite song: i know its over i used to firmly believe that i didnt like the smiths. then i listened to this album after a difficult breakup and i finally got it. 5/5
I just love Morrisey’s voice so much. It’s so unique. I could just leave this album on all day.
The Smiths are in that post-punk / college radio / alternative rock 80's category that I often have a soft spot for with bands like R.E.M, The Cure, Pixies, Sonic Youth, and The Cranberries. From quirky songs like Frankly Mr. Shankly and Cemetry Gates to more typical songs like I Know It's Over and Bigmouth Strikes Again I can just sit and vibe on the whole album easily while I'm working on something just hanging around. Love the way that jangly guitar and upbeat sounds are paired with stinging lyrics in the quicker songs, and those songs are sprinkled in to keep it from feeling like it dragged at any point. Morrissey is a toolbag, but this album is real good. 4.5/5 and 4.5's always round down for me.
Solid but not remarkable.
fucking awesome. hope Morrissey dies soon.
Sehr gut!
Pretty good. Another situation of great artists, possibly terrible person? When I listened to this last week I can’t remember if I decided on three or four stars for this one. Since I can’t recall I guess I’ll go with three.
This gets a four for the great jangly Johnny Marr guitar, and a point knocked off for Morrissey being Morrissey.
What a good week from the list generator. The Smiths is one of those bands that I feel like I should like, so every once in awhile, I’ll put on one of their albums. This time, I got it. A very enjoyable listen.
From the era of art of noise
No wonder why this album was so influential for all indie music, for me there were some meh... tracks, but honestly very enjoyed the experience of Morrissey's humour, 4/5. Favourite song(s): "Frankly, Mr. Shankly", "Never Had No One Ever", "Cemetry Gates", "The Boy with the Thorn in His Side", "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out".
Nice album
When I grew up in the 80s, the Smiths (and adjacent bands like the Cure) were cool girl bands. In fact - quick anecdote - in 9th grade, this cool girl got all the other girls to join together and vote for this album for the high school’s best albums of all time poll. This album made it to #2 on the list. My choice didn’t even rate. If I had a brain cell in the 9th grade I would have listened to this back then. But no, I have to listen to them now, when it does me no good and Morrissey’s reputation is in tatters now. Let’s jump into this thing. The Queen Is Dead - nice intro. Like Johnny Marr’s guitar work. 4/5 Frankly, Mr Shankly - Wild, circus music. I see Morrissey in clown shoes and a vaudeville outfit. Cool guitar sound. Was Mr. Shankly a record ex? 3/5 I Know It’s Over - this song wormed its way into my heart. 3/5 Never Had No One Ever - this song completely left my brain pan 2/5 Cemetry Gates - My wife said I’m being too dramatic. I told her I was listening to the Smiths. 2/5 Bigmouth Strikes Again - Joan of Arc strikes again! Walkman melt! Oh this is a hoot. I’m sure I’ve heard this before. 4/5 The Boy with the Thorn in His Side - I do love how these songs really depend on Morrissey’s voice, like he’s a crucial instrument in the song. I just can’t imagine them without them. 3/5 Vicar in a Tutu - another vaudeville number. Really I would have loved a Beach-boing-bingo movie with Morissey in clown shoes. 2/5 There Is A Light That Never Goes Out - this song has been on my pre-teen daughter’s playlist for months now. Another amusing, overly dramatic death song for teenagers. 4/5 Some Girls are Bigger Than Others - I had a Morrissey album with a song about an entertainingly rotund female. I wonder what the obsession was. Never mind I know what the obsession was. 2/5 This album holds together really well. It’s probably the best version of Morrissey I’ve heard (I really like Your Arsenal though) I think if I was the target audience I would have given this a 4/5 or even 5/5, but instead I’m mildly amused with a 3/5.
2/5 forgetful
Gear: Focal Clear (ZMFed) Mix: Unterwasser spielende Drums. Basslauf in "I Know It´s Over" ganz nett. Vocals (Morrissey's Ego entsprechend) überpräsent. Musik: Kennste einen Smith's Song - kennste alle. Was nicht schlecht sein MUSS, aber das ist hier ist halt einfach insgesamt zu...egal. 😴 Wertung: 2/5
been listening a lot to this. it has such a mix of thrilling melodies and dreadful lyrics. some nice ballads too. my favorite tracks are i know its over and theres a light. maybe my favorite in the whole smiths catalog.
Nicht mein Ding.
Fabulous!
always made fun, but never really listened. It's good. Can hear how groups like Belle and Sebastian were influenced.
Nice. Did these guys invite singing with an annoying voice?