Reviews (page 8 of 17)
Cerramos la semana con tremendo bandón. Nuevamente al aparecerme una banda harta escuchada y que adoro me enfrento al reto sobre qué decir de diferente de todas las otras reseñas. Primeramente, que el álbum arranca más darkie. Siempre bailable, pero con un mood distinto. El disco varía tonalidades pero siempre se mantiene en el estilo tan particular de The Smiths de canciones bailables (a veces más, a veces, menos) con letras depresivas o reflexivas. Al final dijimos lo obvio. Tal vez allí reside algo más. Hasta la próxima semana, persona espectral que me lee.
De Morry Schmid mit sinere Band d Schmids isch eifach e Wucht und e Beriecherig für eusi musikalischi Welt! Wo die Band bi mir ned mit nostalgia punkte chan (will Ich sii z spaht für Mich entdeckt han), punktet sii fadegrad mit em Morry sinere crazy, unverwechselbare Stimmt und ihrere Krasse Stimmig. Wo There Is A Light That Never Goes Out über mini Chopfhörer dröhnt isch, hani erneut mit Nuggi nüm chöne dinnephalte. Was für e Nuggiverschwendig bi all dene guete Bands. A dere Stell möchti Paar Dank usspreche wo mich zu The Smith nöcher bracht hend: D Sofie Gyrd Hansen wo mir d Welt vode 80er Bands eröffnet het De Noah Hertzog wo immer wider mit The Smiths hinefürecho isch (will lieblingsband und so) De Morry will er eifach die absolut Bombastisch Band gründet het D Mueter vom Morry dass sii so eine ufd Welt gsetzt het. D Grossmueter vom Morry, dass sii e Frau ufd Welt gsetzt het wo de Morry ufd Welt gsetzt het. D urgrossmueter vom Morry will sii sicher e cooli Socke gsi isch Mir selber will Ich eifach en krasse Musiggschmack han wenni the smiths geil find. Mim mami will mer am mami eifach me muss Danke sege Am Peter Zumbüehl will er mir grad min Händsche ufgläse het woni verlore han Am Basil will er en schmucke Typ isch Am Nedi will er en schmucke Typ isch Nomal mir, wege why not, ich muss immer mit mir klar cho Trotz em Lob in höchster Form muni de Gspass us Buchgfühl vo 4.5 uf 4 Gold Schmiedendi Müllerfraue abrunde.
Oddly I don’t think I’ve heard anything from this album before, despite it being on this list and others. Lots of clever writing here. I don’t get the hate for Morrissey
Shame Morrisey is such a twat these days
Really enjoyed this, which annoys me because of course I fkn did.
Again, better than I thought it would be. Some genuine pathos here amidst the sarcasm. Not generally my pile of beans, but it can stay.
Jeg kan godt lide lyden af The Smiths. Marrs guitar og Morriseys vokal skaber en fed stemning. Men det bliver lidt langt på et helt album. Det er som om de fleste sange er lidt fes’ne versioner af deres bangers. Der er bare ikke samme magi gennem hele albummet som der f.eks. er på There’s a Light That Never Goes Out.
This is one of the Smiths' albums that lives in my head rent free because of the lyric "and if a double decker bus comes crashing into us" mostly because of the 500 days of summer movie. Pleasant experience listening to this one.
As I think I’ve said before when served up previous Smiths albums, my favourite Smiths album is their greatest hits. I say this because every album they have released is populated by one or two fantastic songs but the rest I can take and mostly leave. Three great songs are on this album, Bigmouth… The Boy With… and There Is A Light That Never Goes Out. The latter is my all time favourite Smiths track. In fact I would go further than that and put it in my all time top 10 singles. Such a lovely melody and lyrics of teenage angst that I always associate with The Smiths. The presence of this song on the album gets my vote as The Smiths best and reflected in my rating. 4/5 10/3/25
The smiths hmmm solid choice. I like a couple songs need to listen more though
4.5
I think I love Morrissey?
Yeah!
Favorite Song: I Know It’s Over
Fuck Morrissey. Stupid cunt Rating: 8 (The worst person you know makes a good point) Favorite Song: There is a Light that Never Goes Out (If only for the bus-based jokes)
8/10 Idk if there’s ever been a more 8/10 album ever. Really good not great. Happy that Kirk had to listen to Morrissey. Favorite Song: There is a Light that Never Goes Out
Got stronger though the middle, must give it a proper listen paying attention to lyrics
I can’t explain how Morrissey is less insufferable with The Smiths, but I feel like going from a solo album to a group release in just a few days helps with my argument. Definitely an acquired taste for most, but I actually did enjoy this one, and having There Is a Light That Never Goes Out on the track listing is a bonus. A low four for me, but I see why others might rate it lower.
Gloomy day album. Johnny Marr kicks ass. Quick but great album. Liked it all from top to bottom. Easy album to listen to.
While the inflection point of this album can't be understated, it is certainly not the best album of all time NME. A piece of music history, British history, and a an amazing capture of a moment in time. Johnny Marr will never take the level of credit Morrissey did, but this is a showcase of the priors talents that latter added to perfectly
Love the Smiths. Album hits the spot when you need some emo rock
3.5 - Good
Solid
Very nice
Nice. Love “the smiths”, add to my playlist
There's no denying The Smiths. Each song on this album belongs in the same family but they're not identical, like so many other bands' sounds tend to get. I just wish Morrisey wasn't such an asshole.
Love me blues
Almost gave this five stars. A classic that I didn't come to appreciate until after the 80s were over.
Ez 4.5
five star album, zero star singer, therefore, four stars.
Listening to this album by The Smiths was a pleasant experience though I will say as a side note to my project that while I was listening driving my car I was having lots of racing thoughts/anxiety so I don’t think I listened to this one well enough :( The lead vocalist of the Smiths has a unique sound though and I’m pretty sure I enjoyed this one a lot lol
It’s a fantastic album. Some beautiful and brilliant songs. I love The Smiths (if not Morrissey) and I can’t get over how much I miss them each time I dip back in.
Very Morissey to end this album, not with one of the most tragically beautiful songs ever written, but with a song about boobs.
i love the smiths thank god morrissey isnt real haven't ever actually listened to this full album, I do really like when they dip into more of a rock feel like in the title track. the next few songs were a little underwhelming but then Cemetery Gates is an absolute BANGER overall it's very fun but a few songs are a bit forgettable i think
Great introduction to the band - thought I’d recognise more songs but hadn’t heard any. Very melodic. Could see myself singing along to these if I was at a gig live. Fantastic lyrics too
I liked it a lot
The Smiths are a band that I thought I would like more than I did when I first tried them out ~10 years ago. I liked them, but I think I gave them unrealistic expectations based on other music I was into at the time that The Smiths heavily influenced. The Queen Is Dead was the first Smiths album I listened to, the one I’ve listened to most since, and certainly my favorite (Louder Than Bombs is very good too). I love Johnny Marr’s guitar and the moods created by the band. It’s Morrissey that often stops me from calling them one of my favorite bands. That said, I think Morrissey is at his best here, and he delivers many of his strongest songs. The title track is a great opener, and it finishes exceptionally strong with the two best tracks on the album in my opinion. There Is A Light That Never Goes Out is probably the band’s best song overall, what a great track. In the middle I think the album drags occasionally, and Morrissey threatens to be overly mopey. Frankly, Mr. Shankly is pretty great though and lifts the album with some humor. Overall, a flawed but great magnum opus for the band.
Incredible lyrics and musicality - nice mix of tempos - great album
Only passingly familiar but I really enjoyed this. A 4 might be too low.
мне смиты не оч нравятся, но забавные песни на альбоме есть
++*: The Queen Is Dead ++: Never Had No One Ever, Cemetry Gates, Bigmouth Strikes Again, The Boy with the Torn in His Side, Vicar in a Tutu, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out, Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others +: Frankly, Mr. Shankly, I Know It's Over 9,5/10
Very good album.
Pretty much the Smiths. Familiar but strange and comfortably jarring.
Very enjoyable listen, I prefer their debut though 4/5
So many great songs, amazing melodies, totally original
I mean, this is the kind of album these lists were made for... albums that may fly under the radar for some but are definitely worth the listen. Morrissey's voice is a little too whiny in my view, but it does work for them considering the genre of music they play. "How Soon is Now?" (not on this album) will always be one of my quintessential 80's tunes, but this album shows where The Smiths were heading and establishing themselves as Alt royalty.
It is a classic but it isn't consistently strong enough to be a personal favorite of mine.
it’s good and i’m sorry
all time classic
Such a cozy record. Makes you wanna dance in a melancholy.
Everyone knows the album
A classic for a reason, but the back half is so much stronger than the front half.
Minus one star for Vicar in a Tutu
if only it didn't have morrissey
classic
Easy listening!!
I cant get sick of it
Ja, hat mir ganz gut gefallen.
Classic, I was already very familiar with this one. Loooooove
It's a tricky one, innit? I've put it on one more time and it just has gone by just like that. And I would've given it a 3/5 again, but the more I think of it... it's kinda good that it has gone by just like that. I suspect that it might've influenced music I like, that's why it was so natural. But I can't see the genius of it yet. Maybe there's none.
"I'm truly sorry but it sounds like a wonderful thing"... I love The Smiths songs that I love. I love how angsty and sadboi the lyrics are and how camp Morrissey's vocals are. Great melodies that get stuck in your head, with an ability to fit in lyrics that should NOT work in the scheme. The variety and complexity of the pop instrumentation is so addictive and influential.
3.5/5
when i listened to this album the first time, i really wasn't the biggest fan. However, this second time, it really was more of an enjoyable listen. Morrisey's vocals are far more soothing than i remembered. The guitarwork and drums is nice, and there is some interesting variation in the songs that aren't as monotone as i originally thought.
I liked this more than I thought I would considering the state of Morrissey.
8/10
Again... Morrissey is an insufferable twat but the Smiths make great music. Johnny Marr and the rest of the band do not get nearly enough credit for their success.
I often forget to listen to the smiths albums in full but I really enjoyed listening to the Queen is dead all the way through. I spent the album setting up and relaxing in my tent in the back yard!
Love the smiths, hell yeah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVX5TEWEuGQ
Lotta people wanting to fuck morrissey in these reviews…
Quality
"The Queen Is Dead" von The Smiths – Was soll das bitte? Also, ich habe mir jetzt "The Queen Is Dead" von The Smiths angehört, weil das irgend so ein Klassiker sein soll und Moritz meinte, wie krass das ist. Aber mal ehrlich: Das hat mich überhaupt nicht abgeholt. Und ich sag euch auch warum. Erstens: Der Sänger, Morrissey oder wie der Typ heißt, klingt die ganze Zeit, als würde er heulen oder irgendwas dramatisch erzählen, was kein Mensch nachvollziehen kann. „Oh, die Queen ist tot“, okay, krass, was hat das mit mir zu tun? Die Texte sind irgendwie so seltsam poetisch oder meta oder was weiß ich, aber ey, wo ist der Vibe? Wo ist der BASS? Ich brauche 808s, Beats, die knallen, und nicht irgendein Gitarren-Gedudel, das klingt, als würde es aus den 80ern kommen (okay, es kommt ja auch aus den 80ern, aber das macht’s nicht besser). Zweitens: Die Produktion. Ich hab nichts gegen „alte Musik“, aber das hier klingt einfach dünn. Da ist keine Energie drin, das hat keinen Punch. Manchmal denk ich, da kommt gleich Werbung oder der nächste Song, weil es so monoton wirkt. Klar, die Instrumente sind ganz „nett“, aber ich fühl’s einfach null. Bei meiner Musik ist der Beat die Hälfte der Emotion, und hier? Alles so fade und depressiv. Drittens: Wo ist der Flex? Ich hör Musik, um zu fühlen, um größer zu denken, um aus meinem Alltag zu fliehen. *The Queen Is Dead* klingt wie eine Stunde Selbstmitleid auf hohem Niveau. Die Smiths reden über Liebe und Schmerz, aber irgendwie ohne Drama. Und sorry, aber wenn ich Herzschmerz höre, dann will ich sowas wie "Juice WRLD", der mich wirklich fühlen lässt, was Schmerz bedeutet, und nicht irgendwelches britisches Geseier über eine „charming man“ oder „cemetery gates“. Klar, ich verstehe, warum manche Leute das Album mögen. Vielleicht ist das ja sowas wie ein „Soundtrack fürs Leben“ für Leute, die in ihren 30ern sind und über ihre Vergangenheit nachdenken oder so. Aber als jemand, der Trap, Drill und alles liebt, was Banger liefert, kann ich mit *The Queen Is Dead* echt nichts anfangen. Das ist für mich wie Schwarz-Weiß-Fernsehen in einer Welt voller 4K. Fazit: 3/10 – Kann man sich geben, wenn man melancholisch ist und nichts gegen Gitarren hat. Aber für mich? Absolut keine Stimmung. Mach lieber „Astroworld“ oder „Whole Lotta Red“ an. Notiz: Dies war ein KI-generierter Text aus Sicht eines Jugendlichen, der Trap-Fan ist. Senk deinen Puls, Moritz!
- tolle Platte, hat Spaß gemacht
Must’ve listened to this album so many times proper good one
I think I like this better than the other Smiths album I’ve heard on this.
Previously rated: Meat Is Murder (3/5) Strangeways, Here We Come (3/5) ************************************* Better than the other two. This one I might want to hear again. The vocals weren't annoying, they were actually pretty good, and the lyrics were interesting. Good melodies too.
The last two Smiths album made me question whether I actually liked them, but this album reminded me that they do have a lot to offer. Still, l’m not as high on them as I once was… partly because their bizarre lyrics now read as more annoying than clever, partly because they lack for sonic and emotional range, and partly because I don’t like Morrissey’s voice (though he is unique, I must give him that). But I don’t want to be too negative. In spite of everything, this is a pretty great album with a few classic songs. Best song: There is a Light That Never Goes Out
Loved one song - Some Girls Are Bigger Then Others Total sound is not very regular for contemporary hearing, but has its own charm
The Smiths are an odd one
Better that I expected. Quirky and smart
Moz sucks, we know it. It will be his legacy. But The Smiths… The Smiths are very good. This one would probably get 3.5 but I’m rounding up because this was a big one for me in high school.
I love when men are miserable
I have listened to it before. Can be beautiful and delightful or sorrowful, also sometimes Morissey is obnoxious
Morrissey may suck but this album sure doesn't.
one of those albums that you expect to find on this list. i don’t LOVE his voice but i tolerate it. these guys know their sound and their ability to morph genres while maintaining it is very impressive
I feel this album is a bit overrated. It was mostly pretty good, but a few of the tracks reminded me a lot of other jangle pop and shoegaze artists - which I don’t think is a testimony to The Smiths influence and more that they’re a product of a certain time. I also think there are some truly amazing Smiths songs - namely This Charming Man and How Soon Is Now - nothing on this album gets to that level. Fave Tracks: Big Mouth Strikes Again, There is a Light That Never Goes Out 3.6/5
Genius although I do prefer strangeways
some smiths songs are just so visceral for me they can be like genuinely difficult to listen to …. highlights: cemetery gates, bigmouth strikes again, the boy with the thorn in his side, there is a light that never goes out (nov 25 2025)
Witty and iconic post punk. Johnny Marr the king. Loses a star because Morrissey but I won't begrudge his genius on this album.
Good.
Really liked this one. It may be sacrilege but the main reason it’s not a 5 is because as good an album as this is I prefer Blossoms and Rick Astley singing The Smiths to the actual Smiths.
Liking this a lot less than I did in the past. Nothing to do with Morrissey's political viewpoints (they don't help, but mainly with his current material) and I still like most of the more uptempo ones - The Boy With a Thorn and There is A Light are vivaciously swirling and pretty much perfect, Bigmouth is wonderfully strange and bouncy but Frankly and Vicar in a Tutu are bouncy and annoying - but the slowies are often quite dreary and lachrymose and not in a good way.
There Is a Light That Never Goes Out is top-tier and the rest is pretty good
I knew about The Smiths and Morrissey, but I had never listened to their music. Although I don’t like Morrissey as a person, this album is really good.
mejor
The Cure are better. Just sayin' since some people consider The Smiths to be the ultimate British indie band. Not true. But still, this deserves 4 stars. One complaint I have is actually the music -- so many reviews mention Morrisey's witty humor, and that's nice and all, but these are songs, not a collection of poems. The music is good, but I don't care if the lyrics are witty -- they could be Shakespeare-level, but if the music was mediocre, the album would be mediocre too: again, it's music, not poems. (And this is coming from someone who is a huge Bob Dylan fan.)
Muy bueno
I’m the only one I know who likes the smiths. I love this album. Sorry, not sorry
Oh jeez. A heavy hitter in the nerd world. The first review on RYM that pops up not only rates its 5 stars, but criticizes people who don’t like this band due to personal taste. NOT ALLOWED. That’s wild. I BETTER like this or a parade of gothic weirdos will *gulp* call me names on the internet *teeth chattering*. Anyway, take it away weird right wing goth boy. Love the audible bass. Yeah this one is pretty haunting, yet it still drives. This one gets the hell yeah approval from me. Did not expect it to work so well off the bat. The vocals are odd but they really accompany the instrumentation well. The swell underneath the keys and guitar make for a highly 80’s experience. A experience I don’t typically enjoy. Oh yeah. This one was already marked as “liked” by me. 1. It mentions Shankly. I’ll just assume that’s the legendary Liverpool manager and move on. 2. The lyrics are cool overall. Love the line “I’ve got the 21st century breathing down my neck.” Words are fun. Lots of quotables on this track. 3. The riffs and arrangements are excellent. 4. The weird breathy way, he says Shankly sometimes cracks me up. This is a winner. Ooh a ballad. Man. This is really nice. A few of the worries I had about this album were the vocals and the possibility for self-indulgence. I find that this comes off very genuine and the vocals really work. Stretches slightly too long for me, but not to the point of anguish. The incel anthem, brother. But is there ever something about this album. Haunting is the word. This one almost has a blues undertone covered with shimmering guitars and bright. Great Halloween album with the alien sound effects. I ended up absolutely loving this song. Hmm. Nah. This one is not it. A definite lowlight for me. A bubbly one in the midst of an album shrouded in melancholia. Me and Julio down by the cemetery gates. Not terrible, mind you, but not up to the same standard as previous. Morissey is channeling his best Kermit here. Is that the fucking TikTok voice in the background? Our brains have dissolved. Confident it’s smooth as a koala’s in there now. If I hear a noise I only have 30 second clips that I’ve seen against my will in feverish dopamine trances to reference. Despite my thoughts shifting to the downfall of humanity via our own hubris, I realize that this song was good. I don’t really like this one. The boy with a thorn in his side eh? Sounds like he has a thorn in uh his uh. Wait. Sounds like a boy who SUCKS at music. We got there with a big delivery. I want to thank all my fans. To the the two people who “liked” my reviews that one time, I think of you often. Couldn’t do it without the support of those nameless 1001albumsgenerator.com users. Oh, this song sucked. What are we doing?? I was loving this album. It’s just sort of faded. Did someone else start writing the songs? Eh. It wasn’t terrible. Almost western instrumentation. Not my lyrical theme. Jesus it took a pretty suicidal turn. Well. Lots of lyrical depth. I kind of thought it was taking a lame going out and dancing theme. This one isn’t bad. Cool return of different instrumentation. Return to form. Well said pal. Some girls ARE bigger than others. Happens with boys too. Hey, all genders and ages. People be different. Bizarre album closer. What can I say about this one that won’t flag a barrage of hatred from the pseudo-intellectual music reviewing set? Bah nobody reads these. This album is good to great. The music is warm and full, yet somehow desolate and chilling at the same time. A few songs were just there but there were a few that were standouts even amongst the other albums I’ve heard so far in this list. “The Queen is Dead” is an album I will return to, primarily in order to think about being British and sad but also to enjoy. Not a five, so may the lord protect me from the gnashing teeth of internet critique from “high IQ” RYM users with anime profile pictures. Let us pray. 3.5-4 HIGHLIGHTS: The Queen is Dead, Frankly Mr. Shankly, Never Had No One Ever, Bigmouth Strikes Again
Pretty Good
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.
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
"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.
Fuck Morrissey But the Album is great and I like the music. Perfect for a sad depressed walk in the forest
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.
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.
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.
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.
That’s what I said when the queen died 😢
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
Enjoyed the listen - probably after their first album this is the best
Morrisey is a moaner but in a good way
listening while sad, good sad listen, some uplift in it all too
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
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.
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)
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.
Solid album. No real bangers but a good listen and it left me wanting to listen again.
Hard to choose my favorite song on this one. Lots of great ones.
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-
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.
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
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!
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
Bueno, bueno.
Classic & essential.
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
Good album overall. Standout songs: I Know its over Cemetery Gates The Boy with the Thorn in his Side
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
I should have appreciated The Smiths more at the time. Enjoyable album.
The smiths are awesome. One of a kind
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.
Goed album, mooie zang, origineel. Maar uiteindelijk pakt het me net niet genoeg
I love it but have to remove a star because Morrissey
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..
3.6 stars rounded up.
Sounds like a great product of the times
"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.
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
So radical, so POIGNANT, never ending delight. 4 stars
Great varied music.
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.
too bad morrissey is a shit waffle could i write poetry to this? y sad poetry but yes
Couple misses, but the hits make up for them.
Better than I always remember
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
Solid
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".
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.
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.
Really great. Lots of hits and fun nostalgic listen.
- 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
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
There are better Smiths albums, despite how full of classics that this album is, but it's still brilliant.
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.
so bright and so jangly it’s too much for me
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.
Solid
Ohhh...
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 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.
Unfortunately great
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.
Sabor de ensino medio
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.
Enjoyed this album
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.
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.
I didn’t hate it
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.
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.
Journey through dissatisfaction and melancholia.
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.
'80s goodness and I still really like 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.
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.
I quite liked the music, it was nice to listen to it
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
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
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
I’ve never been a huge fan of the Smiths but this album was awesome
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.
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
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.
Obviously I love these sad bois.
No me gustó mucho aparte de las famosas xd, y la última
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
Great voice and bass player. Solid composition.
so good
morrissey is my bitch
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
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.
<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
3,5
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.
Sorry but sweet. Enjoyed it more than I expected to.
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
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.
Lo maravillosamente que cuentan la incomodidad, el amor, el deseo y la sensación de no encajar. Esta luz nunca se apagará. 4/5.
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
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.
frankly mr. shankly лириксы I know it's over дико smooth
An enjoyable mix of moody, upbeat, jangly, sonorous, and smooth songs blended into a bang-up pop album. 4/5
A great album—clever and poetic
"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.
i hate that i love it
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
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.
Sehr gut!
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. Did these guys invite singing with an annoying voice?
The music has its ups and downs. The dark cynical lyrics are great throughout. Favorite song: bigmouth strikes again.
Melancholy, biting, and sarcastic. The album equivalent of a cat knocking something off of the shelf on purpose.
Quiet and chilling
Indie Rock/ Alternative Rock, compelling, interesting. Still has an "oldie" tone. Never Had No One Ever best in this list
I kinda wish I discovered the Smiths when I was growing up so I could enjoy them... before...
HOW SOON IS GOOD
So torn. It’s the Smiths and it’s a classic. I really want to give it 4.5 though
1.17.24
I can only say that "Bigmouth strikes again". Surprise album. I honestly think I wouldn't have heard about this band without this list. Difficult to categorize, but excellent rhytmically.
Sounds are great, some of the lyrics are truly hilarious.
The Smiths are a weird band for me. I like listening to them, but other than "How Soon Is Now", "Panic" and "Ask" it always feels like I am listening to their songs the first time, nothing really sticks. Listening to this album felt like a first, although I heard all of the songs before multiple times. The Smiths in general, and on this album in particular sound weirdly uplifting despite the melancholic, almos whiney vocals and "heavy" lyrics. I keep wondering if R.E.M. was influenced by this album when they wrote "Shiny Happy People"...
Not a bad album, I think there is a lot more to be desired and I'm not the hugest fan of Morissey but overall it was okay! It does have a nostalgia factor for me as it reminds me of the time I lived in New England.
In the eighties I was not really interested in the Smiths while some of my class mates admired them. Today I am wondering why I ignored them. Morrissey has a great voice. Most of the songs are composed well, and I like the arrangements. Bass lines are way better than in many similar songs. It's still not my preferred genre, but it's a good album.
This is a very good album. The vocals blend very well with the instrumentals throughout. It’s definitely a bit depressing at points but in a good way .
Good
Great album to listen to when you are depressed.
Sonically interesting, great intro, good vibes, but probably won't end up in my daily rotation
I really enjoyed this album. There were quite a few songs i liked on it, and overall the instrumentals and vocals were very good to me. Some parts might’ve been a bit weird, but it’s alright considering it’s my first time listening to the smiths. Definitely will check this album out and more like it.
7/10
Quite fun, energic, i'd listen to this one again
Sounded like The Smiths but the pace of the songs were faster and seemed to convey an immediacy about the music. Good album.
This is a good album. Such a distinctive sound and takes me back :) great beat
"I've got the 21st century breathing down my neck!" - Frankly, Mr Shankly The odd high pitched chorus of Bigmouth Strikes Again Some girls is eh
A- Didn't know all their biggest bops were from one album. It was a good album Alicia likes that song about fat ladies D- good album, went by quickly. I liked that one song that kinda had a texas swang sound to it.
Bigmouth Strikes Again remains a staple of the 1980s. Morrissey being his usual dour self, with adolescent angst as the main course. Johnny Marr raises the stakes throughout.
Nice pop rock. Easy listen, but not very interesting. Very good vocals - he actually reminds me a bit about Morten Harket from a-ha.