Reviews (page 9 of 17)
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.
OKAY ENDLICH BACK VODE SKIFERIE find s erste lied schomal villversprechend lyrics passed nöd würkli zude ener fröhliche stimmig vode musig aber ich lieb das FRANKLY MR. SHANKLY I know it's over mega es friedlichs lied cemetery gates megaaaa cute isch jz mal es album wo gern echli länger hett chönne sii grundsätzlich findis sehr es friedlichs album und passt gad sehr zu minere stimmig (dehei fuulenze)
Johnny Marr's songwriting is near perfect, to the point where I can almost ignore my intense dislike of Morrissey. It's a strong album though, despite him. With a different vocalist, it might have been among my favorite albums.
Album Nr. 3. Es gibt zwar keinen Titel, welchen ich besonders gut fände, aber dieses Album ist schon besser, als die vorherigen beiden.
Oh my god, Morrisey. The perfect thing if you’re feeling morose but also sort of fancy in a literate way and don’t care about anyone but yourself! I mean the ego that just drips off this is so great it’s absurd. Hard to take seriously but totally great, it’s more fun than it should be but I think maybe you have to have a dark sense of humor to inhabit this head space. Even if you separate the cranky racism from Moz and can set it aside, there is no way you can listen to this music and not conclude that the lyricist is absolutely insufferable. Good tunes though!
First, Happy Christmas Eve. Second, the kids are into records again, so I started a new tradition with my two nieces last Christmas, we go out and pick an album on vinyl and I buy it for them. 'Queen is Dead' was my 13yo niece Amelia's top choice (Pixies Doolittle was also on her list). One thought, poor old Morrissey probably doesn't know exactly how Joan of Arc felt but "Bigmouth strikes again" is still a banger- and -very fitting for someone who's infamous for saying dumb things - "Light that Never Goes Out" might be the most emo of all the emo songs of all time.
YASSSS BIGMOUTH STRIKES AGAIN FR
Definitely familiar with this one. Good memories of a solid album, with some definite duds (Never had no one ever, vicar in a tutu, some girls are bigger..), but most of the rest are gems. Bigmouth Strikes Again is still far-and-away my favourite Smiths song, and I don't understand how it isn't everyone's. 4/5
I enjoyed it, was the smiths, similar music across but not to long that it was boring
New wave is my jam. I guess I like the Smiths even if Morrissey is a dick.
This music is not really my cup of tea, but I felt nostalgic for a time in which I had never lived.
I love the smiths.
Very solid! Like the guitar riffs! Morrisseys song melodies arent always thr most grabbing but still it works! Thr lyrics makes up for it.
It's The Smiths, obviously they're great but they've never quite been an absolute favourite of mine.
This is a fine album, containing some of the Smiths best songs, especially Cemetry Gates, There is a Light and Bigmouth.
Considered a protest vote based on Mozza's ugly politics, but I can't betray the soundtrack to my soft and mopey teenage years
Blind album, know the artist by name. I thought this album was better than another I heard from them, but still not that great.
Contaminated by Morrissey’s late life rightward shift
Not bad!
Has some bangers, but a bit of a pick and mix.
Det skal jeg lytte ril igen
You mix Joy Division with Adam and Ant and you got this happy goth vibe who wants to walk in the cemetery on a sunny day.
Very enjoyable listen. Highlight tracks - I know it's over, there is a light that never goes out.
For how influential they were. Nobody sounds like them. There is a Light... is my highlight from this.
liked it more than i thought i would. 80's sounds
NOW THATS BRITISH ALT
I enjoyed this, good driving music. No songs that I felt were bad enough to skip
One of my favourite Smiths Albums. Such sad lyrics to some catchy tunes. Definitely worth a listen. If you listen to this on Spotify it plays a fantastic radio after the album.
The Smiths have such a distinct sound and this is definitely their best display of that.
Some great tracks, I find I enjoy the Smiths more in smaller doses
The Queen Is Dead Frankly My Shankly Cemetry Gates Bigmouth Strikes Again is weird, like, I like how it sounds, it rocks imo, but I don't like the vocals Boy with a Thorn In His Side Vicar in a Tutu There Is a Light that Never Goes out This album was a delight. Other reviews were talking about how this album was "sad boy music" and I must be dumb or something because I got a lot of joy from this. I'm considering a 5/5 to be a perfect album and let me tell you those 3 songs on this album I don't like are really weighing down this score
Fínasta plata sem rennur auðveldlega í gegn. Ég fæ samt smá leið á Morrissey svo ég myndi ekki hlusta oft á hana en af og til myndi ég setja hana á ef ég man þá eftir henni.
He wasn't wrong and if a double-decker bus crashes into us
before listening to this album, i had never heard the smiths. i had thought they were some sort of emo pop or something but quite frankly i enjoyed most the songs throughout this album.
Tof. Kende wel al een aantal nummers.
Wonderful instrumentals and the music is just great for most of the songs. Man is Morissey just the worst though, besides being a weird person his voice is average at best and the lyrics are nonsense. Put another singer in here and it might be a ten. 7/10
We need the Smiths more than ever, to forget what Morrisey has become.
Ten years ago I was 18 years old. This album was my Holy Bible. The wittiness and earnestness of the lyrics and the sharpness of the instrumentation made it unparalleled with anything of that era. It transcended the status of "music" and became "lifestyle". Ten years have passed and I don't think this is a perfect album anymore. Not a particular fan of the last song, also it lacks a precise direction within the tracklist. Some of songs though are rightly regarded as classics, my favourite being "I know it's over". Overall it's a must listen. (I don't like numeric ratings, I just give 3 to ALMOST anyone. This is probably one of the few cases on which I'll break this rule, just for sheer affection to the material)
There are a lot of good songs on this record, although I feel that the track listing is a bit off. Morrissey's voice, while annoying, blends and contrasts well with the rhythmic acoustics.
Love the humorous lyrics and fun vibe of most Smith songs and this album is just full of them. Sway round your house with a daffodil in your trousers and be amused by Morrissey’s unique vocal tones.
I knew it from my teenage years. It has some bangers on it.
I dig There is a Light that Never Goes Out; dad was giving to some of the songs lol
Really enjoyed it. Never gave it a chance when released as you couldn’t like this sort of stuff if you were into metal!! But the title track is just like the stuff I like nowadays. Other tracks varied in enjoyment but liked the whole album overall.
Reminds me of bubs
Enjoyable listen,less fussed with first song
Always enjoyable
Great album Abit to short but enjoyed every song
Ah Morrissey. You moody dude with many a broken-hearted croon. Of course this album is one of the best from the Smiths and shows just how sappy and sad basic bands can get.
Light 7. Liked the shorter songs. Not really my style. A bit too British. Highlights: Cemetry Gates, Vicar in a Tutu
The Smiths sound the best when the lyrics are a little melodramatic because I think that’s the nature of Morrissey’s voice. And speaking of Morrissey’s voice, I wish there were more variation to it, but as limited as it sounds, I still enjoy it (even if it’s a bit whiny at times). I think the music has a very unique sound, but I wish there were fewer songs and that they were longer and given more time to breathe or go off the rails. It’s definitely an album I’ll listen to again in the future, and if Morrissey comes over and wants to have a listening party, he can have some of my lexapro!
I was fairly familiar with The Smiths prior to this listen, but admittedly never understood the "obsession" some people have with them. After revisiting this album however... I still don't get it! That being said, I quite enjoyed this. Definitely going to revisit as there's something here I quite like. The orchestral elements are absolutely great. Would be curious to check out another album of theirs but for now another listen to this is in short order!
Bra, litt monotont og emo
Bättre än förväntat
Jangly, fun, and really English
Good for heartbreak and background
Separate the artist from the art.
Great, warm mix. Something about the singers voice had a regular, but earnest voice. I recognized a song later on. Listened through it twice in a row. Now I get the hype around the name The Smiths.
Johnny Marr’s best
very strong body, some weak or overly british moments
Really like this. This album seems to have a lot of people who are permanently turned off— by Morrissey, mostly— and I can understand how that derails a listen. Didn’t we just have Boy George the other day? For me, it’s how wry and acerbic the lyrics are, mixed with these bouncy and totally unserious melodies… it’s funny and satirical, and also sad, and also funny. The permanently aggrieved Morrissey has plenty of space for some good lines. I laughed so hard with the line “this must be how Joan of Arc felt.” Complete with the pitch-shifted vocal… It’s so self-aggrandizing and funny! That’s why I like the Smiths. Because it’s a mix. It’s that never-quite-serious, self aggrandizing humor that is the master skill of the melodramatic. Certainly Morrissey doesn’t sound like he’d be fun to live with. But it’s good in small doses. 4/5
Good
fuck morrissey, still one of the best albums ever made
So emo.
I can't remember if I bought this album because it was on the 1001 albums list, or because "There Is a Light That Never Goes Out" was featured in 500 Days of Summer. Either way, I've owned this album for a little over a decade, but this was my first time revisiting it in several years. I remember really liking this album the first time I listened to it. I've loved eighties music since I was a kid, but I had never listened to The Smiths before that. Listening to it now, I think my opinion of it has gone down slightly. I still thought it was a really good album, but the second half of it is much stronger than the first half. I really liked the overall sound of the album; I enjoyed Morrissey's vocals, and I loved the jangly guitar sounds. Lyrically, it was kind of hit or miss with me, but I still thought that even the misses were pleasant to listen to. This is the only Smiths album I've ever listened to, so I'm hoping to get another one soon.
Heeerlijkk!!!
Historical piece of post-punk music. Stylistically, lyrically and absolute brilliance in writing by Marr. This is a must listen.
Morrissey has got to be the most angsty person to ever angst
it took a bit... but I really like it
A very solid album, although not The Smiths best in my opinion. Obligatory Morrissey is a twat.
4.5
The Smiths have always been a band I would say I liked, knowing more songs than albums however. Really enjoyed this album, excellent musicianship, fantastic songwriting.
Fuck Morrissey but this album is good. Best tracks: Frankly Mr Shankly, I Know It’s Over, Bigmouth Strikes Again, There Is A Light That Never Goes Out Worst tracks: Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others, Never Had No One Ever
Pretty cool rhythm and bass in the first song. Liked the guitar in The Thorn Sided Boy. I have heard of The Smiths, but never listened to them. With a name like that I expected some bland style of post-punk. I am pleasantly surprised by these lads; especially the bassist. Not the strongest 4 on this list, but it warrants the 4 for the surprise factor as well as the variety of instruments working so well together.
4/5
Morrissey isn't for everyone, but this is another great album. The last half of the album is full of elite songs. It's simply not fair to other bands the Smiths put three of their biggest hits on one album, then hid those tracks on Side 2 of said album. Morrissey is an ass, but he knows how to make great albums. On "The Queen is Dead" he sounds like someone kicked his dog down the stairs 25 times and rather than be angry about it, he has accepted it was probably the best thing to do because the dog annoyed him anyway.
Ya, so i really like this. seems to hold its own space
A classic
smiths are fire
what strikes me immediately about the queen is dead (apart from awe at the opening track) is the humanity and lack of pretention as compared with other smiths records. the honesty. 'cemetary gates' and 'there is a light...' are some of the most beautiful songs ever written. the former reminds me that can life always be pure and new and vital if only one disregards distraction, self pity, idleness and that constant impediment thought. or find the enlightenened few who have this implicit understanding as well and hang on to them. so says some dizzy whore twenty hundred and 23
Enjoyable, smooth, prog rock? but more sophisticated.
I would have ate this the fuck up had I heard it in my teens. It's exactly the kind of self-loathing that fueled me at the time, and it can still settle about me like a warm blanket. Certainly doesn't hurt that the production and performances are slick as hell.
Very British.
I am team Cure for all Smiths-Cure beef. But it’s hard to deny the quality here.
A nice album with a standout in mr.shankly. contains more than a few britishisms but worth a listen
lets goooo, I love the smiths
Some of their best. Bigmouth Strikes Again is just so incredibly great.
This album is good, not the core of what I like but significant overlap
The more I listen to this album the more I think the non-singles are the best part. best tracks: Cemetry Gates, I know it's over, Frankly Mr Shankly
I know it's over is a great song!
Great album, Morissey's baritone voice and lyrics are highlights for me.
banger
ok
Favorite - Some girls and There is a light
Good music. It’s unfortunate Morrissey is a shit person.
Cool british rock, always a fan, but never heard this album before. Very cool, did not know any song in the album after listening to it, but definately a band I will take some time to learn more of and hear more from.
Classic album. Classic songs. Can’t go wrong with the smiths
I wasn’t a Smiths fan for some amount of time because of how different Morrissey’s vocals were from anything else I had enjoyed. In time, I began to dig them so much. They’re like a good cup of hot chocolate, deep and soothing. It’s interesting how much a draw they became as I exposed myself more to them and took the time to prides them fully. Alongside Johnny Marr’s tight compositions and the imagery filled lyrics, it’s a package that offers much musical depth. I Know It’s Over has an argument to be the greatest song ever. The album definitely feels short, but it manages not to feel too thin. Faves: I Know It’s Over, Bigmouth Strikes Again, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
не хватило музыкальности какой-то не лучшие смиты по сравнению с прошлыми (а может прошлые так хорошо зашли)
Вторые The Smiths за неделю, рандом, что ты творишь... Как я и писал к прошлому их альбому, этот мне нравится больше. Не знаю, это чистая вкусовщина скорее всего, не могу описать, чем конкретно он прям сильно лучше. Но сравнив их вот так вот, почти лицом к лицу, наверное можно прийти к заключению, что хватило бы и одного альбома. Да, нью-вей кажется мой любимый жанр, судя по опыту прослушивания. В нём есть какая-то особая энергетика, отсутствие каких-либо границ. С другой стороны, он всё ещё достаточно прост с композиционной точки зрения, здесь нет каких-то уникальных мелодических или ритмических решений. Просто хороший звук. И безладовый бас🥰 4/5. Я думал, что меня этот альбом впечатляет сильнее, чем прошлый. Но оказалось, что они на одном уровне.
Very good record but I much prefer Hatful of Hollow. That said ‘I Know It’s Over’ and ‘There is a Light That Never Goes Out’ are indelible of course. I didn’t recall ‘Frankly Mr. Shankly’ being so articulate about being willing to play the price to fulfil desire.
Interesting classic. I found the post-punk/jangle pop hybrid to combine well with Morissey's dry humor. Great album to kick off the 1001 album journey!
mucho relleno
So many good songs, love that
I haven't heard a lot of them before. This is good stuff.
As much as I despise Morrissey, This album was indeed very solid.
3.5
Good record from a short lived band. Standard angst-rock Post Punk, but rightfully so and one of the first of its time. Standouts- Frankly Mr. Shankly, I Know It’s Over, Bigmouth Strikes Again, There Is A Light… The Queen Is Dead.
Not really my thing
chill lofie beats to study to xoxo
A quintassential album from a group that brought their melancholic melodies and lyrics to the mainstream as they pushed early Alternative music. The usage of mixing and creative reverbs give a timeless appeal as Morrisey croons against the jangling guitars. Similar to the Cure, the lyrics don't match the musical tones, but as a result we are left with a warm and inviting experience.
Just a good time all around. For some reason I thought The Smiths would be similar to Suede. Boy was I wrong, and I'm glad I was.
7/10
a classic
Day 5. October 28th 2022 Enjoyable. I do listen to some indie rock but this is my first the Smiths album. The whole album kind of blended together into one mass, but I think I will be able to get into them if I give them a few more listens. Morrissey's voice is nice.
Liked it!
If only Morrisey wasn't such a knob
Great album, Moz is still a dick though.
Really interesting Brit-pop precursor. While none of the songs were something I’ll listen to forever, they sounded well-made and cohesive.
My first Smiths album!! I really liked "I Know It's Over"
The album largely sounds the same throughout, but for some reason, I quite enjoy this sound. I do have to be in a specific mood to enjoy the whole thing in one go, though. Despite that, I got into the Smiths as a pouty teenager and even Morrissey's dickishness can't ruin this record for me. His solo stuff on the other hand...
I've always loved this one. No notes
4/10, 40%
Me likeylikey. Guitar work is awesome, and combined with vocals make for a pleasant listening experience. Fav song: Bigmouth strikes again
It's over is the best song out of the album
A great album, I really liked the vocal, the guitar and bass. All the album flows really well and I didn't hear any weak moment
It's The Smiths
nice
Great
Great album. You can hear how it has impacted and influenced other music throughout the last 4 decades.
Good
Relatable 😝👸🏽🪦. Also perfect, because the queen is actually dead. Very good album though. I think I love them now.
Amazing voice. Would listen to the Smiths again.
8/10 subtle, poetic, good rhythm, iconic
Good record fittingly timed
Liked it
Pretty good. Not really my cup of tea but I can understand why so many people love it. I think if I had heard this earlier in life I probably would have loved it too.
Стильно, интересно, нет повторений, тебя затягивает с первой песни и до последней. Ставлю 4, но это скорее 4,5 или сильные 9/10
Initial thoughts: I can’t describe it but I love the sound of this a lot. Final thoughts: sounds samey throughout but it’s still really good. Best song: The Boy with the Thorn in His Side Worst song: Frankly, Mr. Shankly
Pretty good, some really good songs. Reminded me of the cure. Slow start.
Would probably enjoy this in a particular mood. Sounds like maybe it was alt/hipster music of its time.
Not finished but its ok
I like it!
This was a teenage years album for me that brings back so many memories. Incredible vocals, great lyrical composition, really pulls at the heart strings.
Better than Morrissey. I liked it better than I remember. RIP QUEEN MUM
Was kinda tuned out while listening but this was funny bc the queen did die
Pretty nice, super relaxing
Iconic album, aged greatly. Bigmouth strikes again is the highlight of the album, of course. Love it.
Guitars, lyrics and songwriting all on point. Favs: The Queen Is Dead, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out, Bigmouth Strikes Again
Hehe
Cooooool riffs and shoegaze
The name aged well, but the album itself is a bit eh
good
Adatto al giorno…
A bit creepy that this album shows up on my list the day after QE2 died but maybe the universe was trying to honor the old girl. Whether I was somehow sentimentally invested, or maybe the album was just good, I enjoyed it. Especially the more edgy tracks. Long live the king.
Wonderful, beautiful
Bad timing, given the name
Classic!
Queen ElizabethII died the day before this was nice🥰 RIP Elizabeth II
First listen. Classic Smiths.
solid album, rip liz
Nice album and totally the truth. Indie gods
It is the 9th of September 2022 today, literally the day after the Queen's death, the RNG gods are having a laugh. Now for the review: although Morrisey is a questionable character (at best) the art needs to be detached from the artist and this record just flows perfectly. I enjoyed every second of it. First Listen?: Y Fav. Tracks: The Queen Is Dead, Bigmouth Strikes Again, There Is a Light That Never Goes Out Rating: 4.5/5
09/09/2022 - Date of Album listened
Fitting choice since the queen just died
Heard it before?: YES! Probs about 20 times Enjoy it?: I adore this, I don’t like to give Morrissey any more credit than usual but The Smiths we’re special and this a is a special record, vibrant and punchy and vocally fantastic Favourite song: love every song here but would go with, Track 6 - Bigmouth Strikes Again
El sonido de una época. Lo más británico del rock británico.
🤟🏼✌🏻
Pretty good. Catchy, but not my favorite.
It was good. Weird to have it recommended two days after Queen Elizabeth II died.
Always a good listen, just generally a solid album, though not one of my faves.
Got this suggestion the day after the Queen died, as did many others, apparently. Cheeky. Great album.
i already love the smiths but havent listened to this album in its entirety. i really like it and love the variety of songs
Smooth guitar and vocals, definite 90's-UK feeling. Not sure if intentional, but I got this album the day Queen Elizabeth died
Liked this much more than I expected. In fact I really liked it!
This cannot be coincidental 😆 Like it more than Strangeways, bit more energy.
Classic new wave with a lush and soothing voice of Morrissey.
Solid.
Very good album. A couple songs feel like outliers but a clear precursor to many modern indie stars.
Thank you whoever did this 😂. Classic album
Really enjoyed this. Great alt rock, can definitely hear how this album inspired many bands to come around in the 90s. Ahead of their time for their sound.
Great music, very flowing. Singing can be a little dissonant but it just works.
Awesome
3.5-4 stars - it was good, i enjoyed it more than I thought I would
The Queen is dead. Long live the King!
Solid album. Little weird to have it come up the day after the Queen actually dies
Tiene un par de grandes canciones, clásicos para mi. Eso sí, este disco es de antes de mis tiempos, yo no estaba ahí para vivirlo. Supongo que buena parte de su encanto se debe a la especificidad de sus temáticas y letras, además de la música bien ejectudada
listened to again good album
Very The Smiths
Already an album I enjoy, one of The Smiths greatest albums.
Kind of weird to get this literally 12 hours after Queen Elizabeth died, but I liked this one more than I expected (presumably because Marr wrote most of, if not all, the music).