Reviews (page 5 of 13)
This album ranges from good to great for me. I think I like The Queen is Dead a little more than this, but they're pretty close. 3.5/5
Smiths is good. There was a good amount of this I hadn't heard before. Good cover art too. This isn't my favorite Smiths but all Smiths is good. 3.75/5
I've never heard this Smiths album before. I have heard Girlfriend in a Coma though. What's to say? He knows it's serious. I liked this album alot more than I thought I would. The first 5 songs are great! I especially like how they build Death of a Disco Dancer. Morrissey used to get on my nerves but actually these last few albums are some of the best I've heard from him. At 51 years of age a guy can still change his mind about Morrissey. Death at One's Elbow is rocking!
Johnny Marr’s guitars shimmer and shine as always, and there’s Morrissey up front and center wishing he wasn’t there, but would be deeply depressed if he wasn’t because he gets validation from wallowing in his own self hatred. Enigmatic to say the least. Personalities aside, The Smiths are truly a great band. The songs oscillate around a deep, sometimes irritating despair that is healed through joyous instrumentation. They kind of invented the aesthetic.
Totally dig the indie / pop / new wavey-ish vibes of this one. I like the heart Morrissey sings with, even when he wants to strangle his girlfriend in a coma, or when he won't be sad for the birthday celebrant to die. Fun instrumentation too.
Fantastic album, start to finish. Easiest of their albums for broad appeal. I'll never not like The Smiths. It's really too bad they didn't survive this album to see its success together.
I typically hit my limit with the Smiths (or, specifically, Morrissey) pretty quickly, but I pretty much enjoyed this from start to finish. While Moz is an icon, he's one who seems intent on tarnishing his legacy as much as possible. At least Johnny Marr has only burnished his legacy with interesting projects and music, and the guitar sound he created in this band set the template for so many who followed.
Fairly good album. Might get me into listening to more of the Smiths. Stand out song - girlfriend in a coma
wasn't expecting this
thoughts: somehow both a lot different to what i’m used to from the smiths but still very much their sound. it’s probably the guitar and morrissey’s voice (which i love). this was released several months after the band broke up which honestly tracks with the tone of the album songs: “i started something i couldn’t finish”, “girlfriend in a coma”, “last night i dreamt that somebody loved me” rating: 7.9/10
I like this. I actually enjoy this guy's voice even if it sounds like he's singing with a mouthful of breakfast cereal. There's a variety to the tracks, which I appreciate. Favorite track: "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before"
Awesome lyrics and melodies
Morrisey, the inventor of emo? I loved this. I don't love Morrisey of course but I loved this. I've no idea if the absurd level of sheer depression the lyrics reached was supposed to be in a sincere or tongue in cheek way, but I don't even care which it is. I didn't know stop me... was a smiths song! I only knew the mark ronson version but I way prefer this! Also WHAT is going on with girlfriend in a coma?! I don't know but I don't care!
Another album of lovely songs by a band with a massive racist as the lead singer. Dammit.
Solid album from The Smiths. Some of the songs really had me singing along.
J - 4/5 Best Track - "Stop Me If You Think That You've Heard This One Before" F - 2/5
I heard a lot more different sounds from The Smiths on this album than I had heard on their other songs I listen to. I enjoyed it, but it started to blend after a while. Not to say that's a bad thing, though!
10 bangers, one after another
Great soundscape - lots of musical variety and different moods from Morrissey. Probably my favorite album by them.
I know next to nothing about the Smiths. So really pleasant surprise here. Probably closer to a 3.5 but some of the lyrics made me chuckle and it sounds like a pretty unique record to me.
Not my favorite Smiths album but still rock solid. Always loved the pop melodies and Morrissey's weird lyrics. Only my truest friends are getting Unhappy Birthday sent to them on their big days.
Really enjoyed this.
Don’t tell anyone. But I loved this.
More of 4.5/5. Better than a 4 but not quite a 5.
genuinely one of my fav smiths albums, i love girlfriend in a coma so much bro AHHH i love
Feels almost… pretentious? but still great
can't go wrong with the smiths. less jangly more texturally rich which is good.
Absolutely sublime record. Never given the Smiths much time but this record is great. The bass and drumming are perfect foundational platforms for Marrs inventive songs and guitar playing and Morrissey's one of a kind vocal style. Those lyrics are just incredible. Love the mix on this album as well.
YES. the smiths' songwriting is fantastic, and the luscious production is such a treat. fuck morrissey! but his voice is gorgeous and really ties their sound together.
The Smiths are one of those bands that I had run across a couple of times before this list but had never devoted time for listening. I enjoy their sound and, while they aren't new wave, they have many similar characteristics that give them that quintessential 80s sound without being too pop-y.
Again... Morrissey is an ass. But the vocal/lyric pairing with the music is undeniably good. The rest of the band is fantastic.
alltaf haldið svolítið upp á þessa. stefán er auðvitað fáviti. en skemmtilegar melódíur og skrýtin söngur að vanda.
The intersection where poetry meets rock. The Smiths are simply memorable and irresistible.
This is their best album. Johnny Marr is awesome.
Very short and easy to enjoy album. Potentially a 5 star after multiple listens. Both lyrically and musically, there's a lot of depth below an already pleasant surface.
Much better than that mid Morrissey solo album I had to listen to a few days ago.
Yes, great stuff. Smiths indeed.
Smiths are quality. Lots of good songs
A reasonable continuation of the sound from the Smiths' previous album, The Queen Is Dead. Lots of solid tracks here especially on side 1. Stop Me... has a classic Smiths arrangement and sounds grandiose and fresh. Despite having a bit of an "80s production sheen", none of the tracks particularly suffer - including this one. I Started Something I Couldn't Finish is similar but with a more foreboding melody and harmonies. And a subtle accordion (or maybe a trumpet?) in the background adding to the mood's "importance". Death of a Disco Dancer sounds very unusual for a Smiths track. It's in an unusual key, is kind of balladesque, and includes some chord progressions that are a little more complex and 70s-ish than the rest of their discography. Pretty nifty, if I do say so. And the Bowie-esque instrumental taking up the entire second half of the track is fantastic. Compare it with the back-to-basics Girlfriend in a Coma that acts as an extended outro, and you'll realise that Death of a Disco Dancer is something really special. I know most musicians hate the industry, the terrible dehumanising machine that takes human lives as input and churns out sounds whose sole purpose is to sate the masses. And every musician needs to write about this evil at some point in their career. But if you're going to do it, darn it, make it more lyrically interesting than the thousands of other songs with the same subject matter. Pink Floyd nailed it with Welcome To The Machine / Have A Cigar. Billy Joel nailed it with The Entertainer. But the Smiths, in Paint a Vulgar Picture? Hmm. "Reissue, repackage, repackage, reevaluate the songs / Double pack with a photograph / Extra track and the tacky badge / A-list playlist" ... "I touched you at the soundcheck". ("Hmm" indeed!) Admittedly, this slight drop in quality can be attributed to the entirety of side two of the record. The songs get less musically complex and the lyrical quality diminishes. Not much, mind you - this is still a cool 4-star dub by the Smiths. Anything that sounds even remotely like the legendary The Queen Is Dead deserves at least this much glory. 4/5 Key tracks: I Started Something I Couldn't Finish, Death of a Disco Dancer, Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before
I’ve only heard a few hits from the smiths and would’ve never thought to listen to this album but I LOVED it.
A lot of attention to the chord progressions
kinda knew I already liked the smiths, so not super surprising that I liked this album. more indie, melancholy, but still made me wanna dance at times.
Let's get this first point out of the way: Morrisey is an insufferable prick. He's been the major obstacle to my enjoyment of most of The Smith's work. Listening to an entire album of The Smiths seemed to be too much to ask, but I soldiered on. Damn it, I liked it. Yes, everything about Morrisey and his lyrics are self-indulgent. This album is good in spite of this--and dare I say it, /because/ of this. This is the soundtrack to a pity party. Put this on when one is nursing a broken heart. Play this when you're so wounded by the world not appreciating you. Cry bitter tears into your diary while this plays. Then hum the songs to yourself as you pick yourself up, brush yourself off, and gather your pride to try again another day.
Pretty vibey. Typical smiths.
The smiths
Indy Rock/Pop FTW!!
I own this one and enjoy it lots of good songs.
Honestly a really strong album with some great songwriting. I can see why the smiths think this is their best album. Definitely gotta do some separation of art and artist cause Morrissey is a prick.
Pretty good, strong first half but not overly memorable
Had not heard this Smith’s album. Me gusta
After having listened to "The Queen Is Dead" earlier on the list I was expecting this to be something else than what it turned out to be. This was surprisingly different and I could see myself possibly returning to this at some later point to give it a bit more time Standouts Death of a Disco Dancer Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before 4/5
Similar to you I had never heard this one before, honestly feel much the same way. Looses some of the jangle pop in turn for some nice surprises in production and instrument choices, but definitely not their best work. Favourites - A Rush and a Push and the Land Is Ours, I Started Something I Couldn't Finish, Girlfriend in a Coma, Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before, Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
my first time through a whole smiths album. i like this more than i thought i would. no one really likes steve morrissey as a guy, but his lyrics are jarring and vivid. plus, the johnny marr hype is worthy. tonally, 80s sadboy/goth has never been my thing, but it's growing on me. marr's guitar helps it along. he kinda does everything here. snarling rhythm, chiming rhythm, dreamy fingerpicking, wailing single notes, bo diddley slapback. autoharp. it's also funnier than i expected. "unhappy birthday." petty as hell. "paint a vulgar picture" has that sweet vocal hook that i crave. and who doesn't love a song shitting on someone's boss? the smiths and johnny paycheck. this one just has a dead guy. a silly death-obsessed blues song and another petty, jealous one to end it. yeah, this is all right.
As has been stated here in myriad ways, Morrissey sucks. His politics are extreme, his racism is unforgivable, and even his lyrics here cause many an eye-roll (he really wishes you just the worst freaking birthday). But, this album, like all Smiths albums, is such a vibe. Luxury music. If you knew nothing of Morrissey, how would you rank this? I’d say at least a four. So, four it is!
Pretty clean album. Easy listening.
This surprised me.
Favorite Track: Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
the pedant's favorite Smiths album, which of course means it's my second favorite. much as i enjoy the miserabilist sound and feeling on The Queen Is Dead (which Morrissey will never ruin for me despite every stupid, reactionary thing his PETA-addled brain vomits out these days), i really enjoy how bright and layered some of these songs sound -- even though a good chunk of them are about the dead or dying. honestly, i'm shocked it's gotten such a bad rap, considering how two or three of their best regarded songs are on it. my mom doesn't even like the Smiths and she knows "Girlfriend in a Coma". "Strangeways" is peak Moz melodramatics too, although it might have been at the cost of him being unable to shut it off later in life. if "Last Night I Dreamt Somebody Loved Me" wasn't a dirge for a dying band with each member playing their hearts out into the inky black of the coffin, then i'm not sure what else would be.
Really good. Arguably their best album.
That's a good album. Only good, not exceptional.
I know, I know, it’s really serious.
Favoriten Girlfriend in a coma Paint a vulgar picture I wont share you
Some key classics on here, and I discovered my love for the song I Started Something I Couldn't Finish. Not as good as self-titled or The Queen is Dead.
Some great songs that capture Morrissey's uncanny balance of pathos/humor. This isn't as great as The Queen Is Dead or Meat is Murder. Its not as unfettered. Maybe it was good they ended things here. But I'm not sure if maybe I'm asking too much as a band matures. Or is it me that wants the shock of the new that fit neatly with where I was in life.
Probably equal to the Queen is dead
Great album from the Smiths. Obviously there's only one well-known song from them here, but it's a pleasant listen from start to finish.
Overall, this is still a good album, but I think it was a fitting departure for The Smiths. Their musical style was clearly shifting, and to me, it just doesn’t compare to their earlier releases. You still get the jangly guitars and Morrissey’s distinctive, melodic, and melancholic vocals, but they were incorporating more keyboards and synths, which changed their style. Normally, I’m all for more keyboards and synths, but this is one of the rare cases where I think it worked against them.
I've started this a bunch of times and always liked em. 4 stars.
Odd lyrics but bops
Only morrissey can pull off these lyrics. What a bop. Not my favourite smiths album though.
Another great album from the lads with a good mix of upbeat catchy songs and some added depth.
Ignore the fact that Morissey became the dullard he is today. This might be the best Smiths album - the highs are among the highest. At least 6 of the tracks are, to me, utter classics, and there's a variety that was missing from earlier albums - piano, synth, Morrisey adding some growls and grunts to his usual warbling. It's not perfect - unhappy birthday is one of the worst tracks they did, and his lyrics are starting to drift into the self absorbed "Why is everyone else so terrible" nonsense he's done since - but it's up there. So, so close to a 5, it just ends a bit weakly.
The Smiths’ last hurrah! Back when Morrissey was still in on the joke. I have to be honest, I really, really enjoy this album. Jonny Marr’s tones are vibrant, the songwriting is sarcastic and witty, and tracks like Stop Me are just so easy to sing along to. Ah, and who could forget Girlfriend in a Coma! So upbeat, so tragic, and completely inappropriate. But at a 2 minute runtime the joke doesn’t wear thin and knows just how long to stick around. Unfortunately the same can’t be said for other tunes on the record. Death of Disco Dancer takes forever to end, and Last Night I Dreamt takes an age to begin. The thing is , I still really enjoy both songs. So points deducted for a lack of focus and failing to cut some of the fat. There’s other evidence here that Morrissey and the boys were at the end of their lifespan creatively in tracks like Unhappy Birthday. At this point in the album the schtick wears a bit thin - like, we get it Morrissey you’re a spiteful prick with a long list of perceived enemies. So, sometimes he ventures into self-parody, but other times he hits the target: Paint a Vulgar picture for example is so eviscerating of the music industry, but surprisingly self aware. Morrissey knows when he sings, “but you could have said no, if you wanted to” that he’s not the uncompromising poet warrior he so often paints himself to be. And then the end. I Won’t Share You. The perfect soundtrack to the fraying Morrissey and Marr partnership. The playfulness with which Morrissey delivers that line is chilling in its own way. It’s a threat to blow up everything if he can’t get what he wants. Classic Morrissey. Ego on full display. A total dick to the end. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the better of the Smith's album's I've heard so far. 4/5
Lekkere rustige popmuziek. Heel fijn om naar te luisteren.
Un muy buen álbum. Conocí The Smiths gracias a la película "The Killer" de David Fincher. Me parece una banda peculiar en cuanto a las sonoridad que logran (sobre todo en este álbum en que varían la instrumentación, y agregaron teclados para generar un sonido diferente en la banda) y sobre todo la voz de Morrissey. El timbre y la inflexión en la voz, las notas que elige y la poesía con que acompaña las canciones. Me parece muy interesante. Me transmite una sensación melancólica y al mismo tiempo iracunda.
Vaikuttaa yhden kuuntelun perusteella mainiolta, pitää kuunnella kyllä vielä uudelleen ihan ajatuksella.
Some very good songs but uneven and not fully cohesive, and sounding as much like a Morrissey solo records than a "Smiths" outing. "A Rush & A Push" and "Paint a Vulgar Picture" (so reminiscent of REM's "Voice of Harold" in terms of indie rock royalty's self-referentiality). "Death of a Disco Dancer" is quite epic, sneakily so, and "Girlfriend in a Coma" is peak Morrissey trolling, really – happy sounding grim content. Their 4th best album, but still quite good.
Great album, TQID is better
“Stop me if You think that You’ve heard this one before” is an absolute banger! Rest of the album is quite solid as well.
Some classics on here
I really liked this album. I wasn’t sure what to expect other than that Morissey being the lead singer of the band. I never really loved anything I heard from him but I almost always like the production. And that’s no different here, his unique vocal delivery totally works for me, and on top of that they really make the most of his voice by making it sound like the music revolves around him and not the other way around. Sonically I loved how “80s” sounding it is which the synths and the production style. If you like that “80s” sound then this album is right up your alley. And if you are from The US then chances are this band is completely new to you (The Smiths are way bigger in the UK but I can clearly see why, they are great).
People seem to either have a pure hatred or absolute obsession with The Smiths regardless of the music. In this case, I really (unexpectedly?) enjoyed the music here. It was more upbeat and engaging than the brooding mundanity I expected.
3.5 stars Favourites: Death of a Disco Dancer Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me
Although the lyrics are dark and at times stinging the satire and Morrissey soft indie-pop crooning make for a sweet listen. My standout tracks are: Trk4 - Girlfriend in a coma Trk5 - Stop me if you think... Trk1 - A Rush and a Push and the Land is Ours Trk8 - Paint a Vulgar Picture Trk7 - Unhappy Birthday Trk6 - Last Night I Dreamt Someone Love Me
Rounding up from 3.5 stars I count myself a Smiths fan, but I don’t tend to listen to their albums start to finish other than The Queen is Dead. Some of their best songs aren’t even on their albums proper. So even though a lot of people say Strangeways is their best, I haven’t spent enough time with it. I’m so glad this game forced me to listen to it again. It’s known as the record where they shifted their sound from their jangle pop/post punk fusion. Even the record’s title seems to signal the start of an experimental new era (that immediately ended when they broke up before the album came out). But it turns out Strangeways was the name of a prison in Manchester, so I guess it was an ending after all. Lyrically, Morrissey is misanthropic and self-pitying as ever (and a tad murderous) - but still tongue in cheek a lot of the time. He’s like an emo Oscar Wilde. Not gonna comment on every song but some things I liked/noticed: -I Started Something Couldn’t Finish - the horns made me think of Britpop-era Blur. -Death of a Disco Dancer - Sounds a bit like Dear Prudence and I like how this spirals into a moody, chaotic jam. -Girlfriend in a Coma - classic Smiths, a jaunty tune about a morbid subject. Uh, I don’t think he’s too sad about the girlfriend. -Stop Me if You Think You’ve Heard This One Before - violent imagery, lies, alcoholism, and a fading romance - topped off by a great closing solo by Johnny Marr. “I still love you / only slightly, only slightly less / than I used to” - how romantic! One of their best songs for sure. -Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me - why does that extended intro sound like the Twin Peaks theme -Death at One’s Elbow - can’t you just write a love song, Morrissey? It’s always “There’s somebody here / Who really really loves you” on one hand and “there’s somebody here / Who’ll take a hatchet to your ear” on the other. It’s a shame that Marr and Morrissey hated each other and this was their last record. (But can you blame Marr? Morrissey’s a prick.) Regardless, I still love The Smiths, I happily listened to this all weekend, and it rewarded repeated listens.
What the hell did I just listen to?!?? It started casually (I wasn’t paying that close attention) and then Girlfriend in a Coma awoke me. Then Unhappy Birthday left me confused and laughing, and I had to start the whole album over and focus on the lyrics. If Manson, Gacy, Dommer and Bundy wrote an album, it would be this one. I was caught between laughing and horrified! Paint a Vulgar Picture, Death’s Elbow; Death of a Disco Star: wow! Morrissey was Marilyn Manson and ICP before it was cool! I’m coming back here!
Random thoughts: * I think I'm now a fan of The Smiths. I'm just down with the sound and music style. Who knew? * I listened to this album 3-4 times because it was quick and a good listen. * I particularly liked "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before" and "Unhappy Birthday" but the whole album was solid. * I'm looking forward to delving into more of The Smiths discography.
This feels like music someone has poured emotion into. It's overflowing with sincerity and earnest angst.
The Smiths are always pretty good, but this isn't exceptional.
No es el mejor pero está bien flama y además se nota que estaban probando cosas nueves pero luego van y se separan
Brilliant, I'm not sure consistently brilliant but oh wow :) the bits that connected really did
I am a huge Smiths fan and this is a great record, but I am not sure it belongs on here. I would rather have an INXS record on here and not this.
An incredible album full of brilliant songs
Not bad. Morrissey still sucks.
You know that meme/gif with the guy walking into a room with boxes of pizza only to be shocked when he sees the chaos going on? The one from Community? That’s me seeing the reviews for this album and the rabbit hole of the seething hatred for Morrissey. I’m going to be honest, I’ve must have had my head in the ground, because I’ve never heard of him or his controversies. Is it because I’m American or blissfully ignorant? So, I’m kind of going into this album blind and I have to say; I thought this was good. It’s some pleasant 80’s alternative with a layer of melancholy. I will say Morrissey voice helps achieve such melancholy, which makes the album feel “poppy” but a little subdued. I also like the variation between the songs. You have the emotional “Last Night I Dreamt That Someone Loved Me” to the weirdly upbeat sounding “Girlfriend In A Coma”. As someone who has never really heard of this band or their problematic lead singer (whom I’m aware I’ll get to hear more of later… oh boy), this was pretty solid. Favorite track: Last Night I Dreamt That Someone Loved Me Other hits: Girlfriend In A Coma, Paint A Vulgar Picture, A Rush And A Push And The Land Is Ours, I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish, Unhappy Birthday
The problem for me is always the same with the Smiths and Morrisey. I don't like his voice all that much and it is a huge feature of the music. The hard bit is that otherwise, including lyrically, I could really get behind this band and the lead singer solo himself. But it just always overwhelms me. I do try. Every time. Because I love this genre and The Smiths are such an iconic part of it I really almost feel bad that I don't like them. But here we are. Now, this and all my reviews are generally meant to be neutral reflections and that means this album ought get a pretty great rating. In this case I feel the need to override my own bias and say this band IS iconic and a huge part of the new wave/ alternative scene and thus is important. Thus my rating is solid, even if it is not for my particular taste.
A very good album (one of the best post-split albums?)
Great production. Awesome sounding album
Not my favorite Smiths album but this still has a lot of good material. Fundamentally good music.
Yeah, The Smiths are pretty great.
This is one of those albums that for some reason I always forget how good it actually is. I saw it pop up this morning and my immediate thought was "great, my least favourite Smiths album", but after giving it another listen I actually would say this might be one of their best.
unfortunately, i liked this album
базочка спасибо что без лая в этот раз
In the decades-old The Smiths vs The Cure debate, I land just slightly in favor of The Smiths. But, wow, how this band takes me to a time and place.
i love it
Overall an enjoyable album. A lot of variety in terms of mood. Very fun listen
I wanted to hate this album so much based on my profound dislike of Morissey and his tired/predictable antics. Alas, not to be. Really liked it. Music and guitar work were spot on. And Morissey has a nice voice and lyrics were good. More Smiths back catalogue digging required! Solo stuff not so much!
As a teenager in the 1980s, I found it difficult to access The Smiths' music; their songs were absent from top-40 radio stations, and their albums were not featured in record stores. It wasn't until several years later, during my time at university, that I was truly introduced to their music, although by then it was overshadowed by the grunge and alternative rock bands, which caught most of my attention. In retrospect, "Strangeways, Here We Come" is more approachable and pop-oriented compared to their earlier work. The production quality is exceptional, and the overall sound is more ambitious. The album often showcases jangly guitars, robust rhythm sections, and powerful emotive vocals, with memorable tracks such as "I Started Something I Couldn't Finish," "Girlfriend in a Coma," "A Rush and a Push and the Land Is Ours," and "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me." However, there are a few songs, like "Unhappy Birthday" and "Paint a Vulgar Picture," that detract from its overall greatness. Ultimately, I wonder if both Morrissey and Johnny Marr were consciously trying to leave a significant final impression, knowing that this would be their final album. This music continues to feel vibrant, fresh and engaging. Hot take - "Strangeways, Here We Come" has become my favourite, and the best, album by The Smiths.
Clássico The Smiths, todas músicas muito boas
What a loser.
Closer to 3.5
Light 4 star, some good songs but not too much of an experience. Not to say it isn't good, cause it is. Just nothing crazy
I’ve always loved The Smiths. This isn’t my favourite album, but it’s still a great one!! Enjoyed dusting this one off and pleasing my ears.
At one time in my life The Smiths were my favorite band and I still love them to this day. Everything bad people say about them is either people not being smart enough to understand what they were doing or, yeah, that’s just who they are. And I love them for most of that. One thing about who they are is that I think they were a singles band rather than an album band, and so none of their albums is as good as their two Best Of collections which I had as a teenager and wore out, lamenting how terrible life was rather than actually going outside and trying to make something out of it, which is a choice I fully stand by.
Love The Smiths though this is not my favourite or their best though still some absolute classics on here.
morrisseys voice is insane
Enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. Lyrics are super entertaining and the composition is fun. Enjoyed the opening track and Girlfriend in a Coma. Each song paints a very vivid and unique story/scenario. Will definitely be listening to this album again even though most of their hits aren't off this record. Because the music doesn't seem to match the storyline of what is sung, it makes it even more entertaining and hilarious.
Girlfriend in a Coma was intended as a serious re-imagining of a Nina Simone song, which makes the fact that it's hilarious a bit awkward. Anyway, have to say it, The Smiths are incredible sadboy rock and in Morrisey's honor I'll feel slightly bad the next time I eat a hamburger.
I always get a kick out of Morrissey's lyrics and musicality in his singing, and this was no exception. Great album, although the mood kinda sits in your soul and isn't my favorite. Four stars.
Pretty good, liked their earlier stuff a little more
A Masterpiece, an unforgettable vibe that still resonates today.
First time listening to a Smiths album. I like the poppy beat with the melancholy but witty lyrics. Unhappy Birthday was a highlight for me, I'd be interested in what tunes are on other albums.
I actually believe Morrissey feels everything he says he does on this album. This ranges quite beautifully from operatic stuff to jangle pop, though some of the Morrissey-isms are quite cringy. Standout tracks are: “A Rush and a Push”, “Death of a Disco Dance”, and Paint a Vulgar Picture”.
Quality band those Smith boys. Smart lyrics and iconic guitar playing from Johnny. Girlfriend in a Coma best song.
I didn't realize they only had 4 albums in their career. Each are classics. This isn't my favorite but it's mighty strong.
In retrospect The Smiths probably became/stayed the über-cult band they are due to the limited run the band had. As it is, this last album of theirs is also near perfect and we have been spared any strange later musical developments and most of all Morrissey-the-toxic-moron's emergence under his old band's banner.
The boy has got a gift for melody and drama that supersedes the assholery, and the tomfoolery.
Starts off slow with the first two or three tracks, but really picks up the tone and energy as it continues after that. My first full front-to-back listen actually and I wouldn't rave about it the same way that others do, but there's certainly something here to revisit at some point. 3.5/5 for the time being, but who knows? Maybe I could learn to love this one even more?
chill rock, but some lyrics were questionably silly. ig that's the appeal of old school rock? I can't jam to this, but good for blending into the background while I do chores.
Like the smiths, so enjoyed.
Morrissey is a boner, but I'll always love the Smiths. I'm a Queen is Dead guy, but this record is also great. Lotta grunting at the beginning. Grunt more Morrissey. Jonny Marr is the best.
Das letzte Album von The Smiths zeigt, wie vielseitig und großartig diese Band war. Der Sound lebt vom sphärischen, romantischen und introspektiven Gesang von Morrissey und den immer wieder aufregenden Gitarren von Johnny Marr. Hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Am besten gefällt mir das eher ungewöhnliche A Rush and a Push and the Land is Ours, das einen coolen synkopierten Rhythmus hat und weniger Gitarre, dafür aber mehr Keyboards.
Really awesome. Favorite tracks: - Death of a Disco Dancer - Girlfriend in a Coma
I mean, with The Smiths, you're always going to get high quality art. And this is their highest quality album. There's a reason Johnny Marr is considered one of the great guitaristas (yes I just invented the word). It's all very pristine, Morrisey's poetry is at its most sublime, his voice at its most confident, velvety, amiable even. The production is exquisite. The songwriting is engaging - fully embracing their best impulses. The Beatlesque "Death of a Disco Dancer" is deft. "Girlfriend in a Coma" follows in a similar string-fueled vein, a kind of lovely verse-chorus ballad that exists in the Jam's shadow a bit. Everything that follows pulls you in as well. Unhappy Birthday, so clever, the sort of song you unconsciously invent on your way to making toast, musically charming and lyrically difficult. Good stuff. Much of the album swashbuckles its way into that self-pitying inner dialog the Smiths mastered. At times the poking witticisms feel forced. Overall The Smiths have their own atmosphere, foggy, British. It looks back, to last night or the 50's in an organic way. I just want them to rock a little harder, and for Morrisey to feel what he's singing a little harder. You know what I mean. Make me feel it also.
Excellent lyricism. A classic. Not really in my present realm of taste.
I liked the second half a little more than the first half, but overall I enjoyed this more than I was expecting. Favorite track was probably Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me. Haunting and bittersweet.
Trippy synth new wave rock and crooning vocals that, while I would enjoy listening to at a cafe or a dinner party, hypnotized me and lulled me to sleep while I was working.
Atmospheric and moody 80s synth-pop. Heavily driven by excellent lead vox.
I’m mad this is good, even with all the moody, pretentious lyricism.
while I'm here I'm going to formally protest the fact there's 3 Morrissey solo albums on this list (shocking) As much as I shit on the smiths this is a very good album, probably the best despite the absence of the classics I liked when I was 13 (this actually made for a fresher listening experience tbh). A rush and a push and the land is ours >>>>>
Nice, smooth album. I like the singer's voice
Who said I lied because I never
Great farewell album by The Smiths. They were such a hugely influental band in the 80s. I have always liked the musicianship, the lyricism and the melancholy. I'm saving my 5 for 'The Queen is Dead' but it's a strong 4 from me.
Gets points for maintaining utter desolation without ever becoming cheesy and patchy like their earlier work. My favourite Smiths album by a very long margin.
REALLY loved this one, sonically beautiful, easy 4, want to push to 5 but saving my first 5 for something insane
Despite being familiar with every other the Smiths lp (and even their first singles compilation Hathful of hollow) I had never listened to this album for some reasons. I'm glad I did now, because this is unexpected peak. The Smiths are a band I really like, even tho their sound didnt evolve much (which is fine since they've got 4 albums), but this feels different. Morrissey shines as usual and the instrumentals were, idk, very fuckin good. Solid with many highs and no lows.
Bra skit.
8/10 Fav: I Started Something I couldn't finish Last night I dreamt somebody Loved me I Won't Share you
3.5
Right on time. Dating emo
The Smiths have lyrics that are sad while the song is upbeat and it’s very effective
3.5/5
'Do you really think she'll pull through?' 'And the pain was enough to make / A shy, bald Buddhist reflect / And plan a mass murder.' 'And if you should die / I may feel slightly sad, but I won't cry.' That's Morrissey alright - that's his invention, of which I can't think of a proper imitator/reverential copycat. How'd you do it? I had, for some reason, evaded The Smiths's final album. Shame on me - tho not quite their best, b/c it's not their most definitive, it might be their most consistently colorful and vigorous, even approaching something soulful at times: Morrissey finds his growl ('A Rush and a Push,' 'I Started Something'); I find myself chuffed, snaring this thing that's theirs, that only they've ever done.
4.5 stars. Loses 12 a star for Morrisey being an utterly repulsive human being.
more my style, too long intros tho and just about not fit my playlist, if I could 4.5 stars
Cool
Enjoyed listening to the whole album.
3.75/5
solid album
Really liked it. Saved three songs.
seee 8/10
Great album
It might be just today, but this sounds better than The Queen is Dead today, and I know its not, but it sounds great. Really like the pianos going wild at the end of Disco Dancer mixed with the jangly guitars
solid 4, i’ll let the smiths have this one
7/10 Soft, british, gay, soothing, aka morrisey in one sentence.
4.5 stars really. This is terrific, melodic music.
At last a dead star
The Smiths had already imploded by the time this album was released, but they just might have saved their best for last. Johnny Marr puts in some incredible work here.
заебись
7/10 The first few songs were great but it turned back to The Smiths that i hate towards the end Favourite Song=I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish Least Favourite Song=Unhappy Birthday
liked songs: I Started Something I Couldn't Finish, Girlfriend in a Coma, Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me, Unhappy Birthday Fantastic. Give me 14 of em right now. 4.5
Thoroughly engrossing with superb lyrics, inspired instrumentation and flawless composition
Lovely album
General impression: lush and moody Detailed review: I’ve started to fall in love with the sound of The Smiths. There was some major bias to overcome, because most of what I’ve read about Morrissey has just annoyed me. But come on, he’s obviously not the main driver behind this band’s good material. His voice fits the music really well, and his wistful delivery works for me. But it’s really all about the composition and performance of the music. Johnny Marr, baby. I feel like I could live in these songs. The guitar tones. The chord progressions. I’d have been way way into this if I was a teenager in the 80s. This must be what the “emo kids” of that time listened to. Deeper thoughts (context): I should probably revisit Meat is Murder because I think I only gave it a 3. I’d give it a 4 at least now just because I’m starting to love what they do. Score: 4 Number of albums left to review: 932 Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 41 (including this one) Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 28
4/5 for the smiths 1/5 for morrisey
The Smiths go out on a high. Maybe not as strong overall as The Queen is Dead, but still many memorable songs e.g. Unhappy Birthday, Stop Me..., Death of a Disco Dancer.
Was prepared to hate it but rather liked it. Morrissey is an asshat but as far as I know has done nothing more than spout a bunch of ill-informed opinions. If anyone takes note of the opinions of a musician on anything but music that is really their problem.
Good- but not their best
Ahead of their time. Still palatable.
Very nice moody album for overcast and rainy weather.
Good album second most favourite by smiths
what am i gonna do not love the smiths? so im such a singles girlie when it comes to them & haven't sat through this album in full like this. i ended up listening to this on repeat more than any of the other albums, really wanted to absorb it just realized i do know more songs that i thought like "stop me if you think you've heard this before" lol so need to update my usual rotation last night i dreamt that somebody loved me - cool little build up to a great climax overall good & fun album, even if its not their best, v smiths nonetheless
Perus hyvä smiths..
Favorite track: Stop me if you think you've heard this one before other picks: a rush and a push, death of a disco dancer, girlfriend in a coma
I’ve realised the problem I have with The Smiths is that my introduction to them was The Queen Is Dead and nothing comes close to that This came much closer than Meat Is Murder though which I had little time for.
I didn't expect to like this as much as I did, yet I don't think it's an album worthy of the hype. I would say it's decent. I like the instrumentation on a lot of this, but the singer wears out his welcome pretty fast.
This is a 'strange' one for me. I love every minute of it, but it suffers a bit having listened to it after the White Album. I would rate a 4.5 and I think I'm tipping down to 4 over going up to 5. Super tough, it's an awesome album.
4.5/5. Definitely a great album but not their best as much as the band members like to think so. It was a bold effort of them to try and break away from their jangle pop sound, would have been fascinating to see how their music would have evolved had they stayed together.
I enjoy a few songs on this album. A Rush and a Push and the Land is Ours, Girlfriend in a Coma and Stop Me if You Think You've Heard This One Before. The album feels good and as cliche as it sounds, brings me back to retro nights in my carefree university days.
i love the smiths and this is a fun last album for them!! its kinda weird compared to their other stuff and i like that they tried some stuff ...
7,10
I’m not that big of a Smiths fan but you can’t in all honesty say that this is shit. This might be my favorite album from them and I’ll probably come back to it in the future, which is more than I can say about some other albums on this list
I feel like i moved past The Smiths, but it's still good music, thx to Rourke & Marr. Morrissey is still an arsehole. Girlfriend in a coma is without a doubt the best song.
I feel like I should like the smiths... And i bloody do, big fan! I don't think this is their strongest album but I can merrily listen to it
I love the Smiths, and especially Morrissey's voice, but I wasn't in love with every song on this album. Some songs were outstanding and some showcased the things I like the least about the Smiths.
Considering how much I claim to like The Smiths, I don't think I've listened to many whole albums. I liked this though!
As always with The Smiths, Johnny Marr is the star of the show for me on this record. Some really amazing, versatile guitar work here. "I Started Something I Couldn't Finish", "Death of a Disco Dancer", and "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before" are probably the main highlights. I honestly liked this a little less than last time, though. I want to like them more; I remember liking The Queen Is Dead fine enough when I was growing up, I was pleasantly surprised by Vauxhall and I when I got it early on in my personal project, and I thoroughly enjoyed the last two Ducks Ltd. records, which I realize are essentially musical love letters to The Smiths. But in recent years, whenever I've sat down with them, they've consistently fallen into that cursed category of "this is totally fine, I just don't care much about it." I'll have more chances to fall in love with them throughout this project, though, so fingers crossed. 3.5/5
Not sure if this is their best album but another solid album. 4 stars.
I mean it's the smiths, always good. I really enjoyed the song unhappy birthday, great lyrics
Early punk is the best. If you like it at all then it’s a must listen.
Mainio levy! Hyvin sopi maanantain aamufiiliksiin. 4/5
This was a good one. This band has grown on me a lot in the last decade
One of my favorite bands, with some of my favorite songs.
Хороший альбом с осенним вайбом
Not my favorite album by The Smiths but I can't give them any less than a 4
i love the smiths man
A solid album across the board, there is really ain't much hate about this. This is what you should expect above average 80's music to sound like. 3.75-4.00/5
Lovely, gentle, quite short
eternally underrated smiths album - but what wouldn't shrink in the shadow of meat is murder and queen is dead? more bangers than you remember!
Enjoyed. 4/5
Not really my thing but one of the better albums that isn't really my thing.
First time listening to a full Smiths album and I was pleasantly surprised. Morrisey's singing is the signature of this band, but I found listening to this that it also distracted from the great progressions and instrumentation in general. Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This Before rocks and I've been playing it on repeat.
Wasn’t sure how I felt on first listen. Had always thought the smiths, and morrisey specifically, were one of those bands I just didn’t get. But this album made me want to relisten a few times. Though only a few standouts (the disco one and happy birthday because you’re evil) to me - on the whole I have to say this sounds both unique and familiar, the lyrics are witty and fun, and there’s really a lot to like on the whole
Great album from The Smiths discography. Not as many memorable moments as TQID and Meat is Murder, but still a very worth listen in my opinion. Highlights: I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish, Girlfriend In a Coma, Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me, Paint a Vulgar Picture.
This was a big surprise. Mych more upbeat than anticipated. M7sically and lyrically strong!
Enjoyable to me, although I understand the people that don’t like the Smiths so much. 3.5/5
this is the smiths album i’ve listened to the least for whatever reason. well you know me i always cry at endings…anyway i kinda like that there’s something a little bit more melodic/traditional sing-y sounding (omfg hopefully i can explain this later lol) on here compared to most other smiths songs. maybe it’s morrissey singing in a slightly higher register? i don't KNOW his voice just sounds more pop here. i like it. fav tracks: a rush and a push…; girlfriend in a coma; stop me if…; paint a vulgar picture; last night i dreamt…; i won’t share you
awwww I really like this album. i don't know a lot of the smiths but this is the only one I've heard before and I do think it's very pretty and melancholic and evokes a really specific kind feeling that i can't describe....
Conocía varias canciones, pero las que no conocía me sorprendieron porque no eran del sonido típico de The Smiths.
My least favorite Smiths album here, but it’s still fine.
Morrissey must have really pissed a lot of people off because all of The Smiths reviews are full of haters. And maybe that makes me pretentious becuase I loved all of them, especially this one. It was all new to me and it was awesome from the very first song. A Rush and a Push and the Land is Ours is excellent. I started Something I Couldn't Finish was also quirete strong. Girlfriend in a Coma is a bit disturbing, and I'm sure it's meant to be funny, but it's not quite ironic enough to nail that tone. The only blenish for me on this album.
could i write poetry to this? y
8.9
The last studio album by The Smiths. You can hear the break down of the band in the music and lyrics. Every musician is playing at their best. Strong drums, Great Bass, Amazing Guitar and melancholic lyrics and vocals are all clearly apparent. It has amazing singles, hidden gems and a birthday song for anyone you don't like.
Funny guy, that Smith
I liked this album. Lots of pretty solid songs and one stand out for me (Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before). I'll probably listen to this one again. I'd give it 3.5 stars.
Easy to listen to. Reminds me that I just really like 80s music. Dark story telling, deceptively soothing vocals. I would listen to this again! Girlfriend in a Coma is such a weird song, but GREAT story telling. I took it as him having nearly killed her but failed, and now wanting to be alone to finish the job (in case she wakes up and tells on him). Which would be a very dark turn for a song that sounds deceptively uplifting. Last Night I Dreamt that Somebody Loved Me is a great song.
I like other smiths better but I enjoyed this
I've always thought this one was the best Smiths album. It's just the most complete in my opinion. The closer "I Won't Share You" is just beautiful. Not quite deserving of 5 stars though. But definitely the Smiths best work!
I wasn’t having a very good day today but when I saw The Smiths on my phone, my eyes lit up. Something about Morrisey’s ability to make any remotely happy song feel like the ending of a Greek tragedy is almost so peculiar that it makes you smile. I adore the smiths but I feel their high standing in my heart can’t quite get them to the 5/5 mark
I had this cd when I was younger so know it quite well but definitely had not listened in a long time. It’s probably the worst of the smiths 4 albums, but is by no means bad. You can tell it was later in their career by the variety of instrumentation and song types, which works well on certain songs but makes some songs sound a bit silly.
least favourite Smiths album. Still pretty enjoyable background music
What an incredibly fun and moody album. First listen through I really dug every song, and also the first album in this project (4th album I've come to) where I really wanted to re-listen to everything instead of just a couple of songs here or there (sorry Joy Division, you didn't get a single perma-like on anything). Fun production on almost every song, the vocals and the lyrics tell some compelling stuff. I think, maybe "Unhappy Birthday" was the one that made me cringe a little first time through, but, honestly, the three song streak of Girlfriend in a Coma, Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before, and Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me was an absolute overture, so I give "Unhappy Birthday"'s out-of-place cuteness a pass. Really good. Listening again now, not because I feel like I need to (again sorry Joy Division, I gave you a fair shake), but because I really want to. Between 4 and 5. Would probably be 5 after a little more time.
I listened to The Smiths a lot in my early 20's, pretty good stuff in my opinion. We always made fun of it for being super depressing and causing bouts of crying. Very chilled out, maybe depressing but I like it.
9/20/24. The Smiths are very consistent. For sure you can hear their influence carried on by newer bands in the indie or post punk scene, especially in songwriting and vocals. Veyr enjoyable listen.
Can you believe this is their weakest album? Unbelievable band
So close to a 5. Every year I used to send unhappy birthday on Facebook to my friend Jon who hated the smiths. What a wrong un
ok
Early them but good
Surprisingly ok for the smiths
I used to listen to "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" a lot, and I loved it. Maybe my rating for the album is mostly because of this track. The rest were ok, but I'd need to get back to them again some time to listen more carefully and decide if they're on par with "Last night..." for me or not.
Grappig, origineel, en mooi.
Third Smiths album I've gotten. Really like their kind gloomy minor vibe.
Classic Smiths. No new ground broken on this one but still enjoyable.
4.4 - Quite liked that I just hadn't listened to this album that much, think I've listened to the queen is dead too much. Some really great tunes
Fave Tracks: A Rush and a Push and the Land is Ours, Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before 3.9/5
Not my favorite Smiths album but there are some great songs on here. “Unhappy Birthday” is fantastic and I hum the lyrics all the time. There are couple skips on this album just because they are too long and slow for my taste. If I would have grown up listening to this one more I maybe would have a better view of it but this was not one The Smiths albums of my childhood. Solid album which some great variation of songs but just not on the same level as their other albums. 7/10
Big smiths fan here
4/5. A better produced and wall of sound album with each instrument being prominent. The songs are catchy and yet dark, as is the Smiths aesthetic. There were more songs I enjoyed on here than not, which surprising for the Smiths, and the extended instrumentals for the songs definitely has influence of many of the 90's and 2000's indie bands. This was a great album once concluded, made me want to put it back on but only when I can handle Morrissey's voice. Best Song: Girlfriend In A Coma, Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me, Death Of A Disco Dancer
Not as goood as the others
i love the smiths! sorry? i said i love the smiths !!
None of their best songs but still a very good album
Aside from a few songs here and there, I never gave The Smiths a thorough listen before going through this list. Politics aside, this is a very good album. Particularly like the guitar work of Johnny Marr, who has a way of making a simple riff sound very impactful. Great balance of rock / pop / something else unique that makes them stand out. And as an album, this one feels more cohesive than Meat is Murder, which is the only other Smiths album I’ve listened to in full.
a rush and a push and the land is ours
Classic smiths. Beating women, being an asshole and unable to control it, general male sadness. This time with some prog rock echoey intros.
Another great album by the smiths, just not as good as the queen is dead in my opinon.
"I said I love The Smiths" ma nel mio cuore non mi sento di poter dare 5/5. Comunque super bello, dinamico e orecchiabile.
This is admittedly quite dated, but it is still a really enjoyable album by one of the most important British bands of the 80s. No Smiths = no Britpop. No Britpop means this list is probably half as long ...
Enjoyable enough alternative Rock. Will relisten.
Love The Smiths. Good album, a lot more theatric than what I’ve heard before because of the production. I prefer the other sound, but this is still good. Good final album for them. Standouts: Death of a Disco Dancer, Girlfriend in a Coma, Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before, Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me, and I Won’t Share You.
Muy bueno
This is one of The Smiths albums that I haven't given much time to in the past. It's pretty good, Johnny is a master as always, rhythym is tight, and Morrisey is just as sarcastic, detatched and English as always. Hopefully there are other Smiths albums on this list, because this isn't their best album.
Pretty good. Too bad Morrissey is a grade A arsehole.
i listened to this one prior to generation and actually the last the smiths album i needed to listen to except for the live album. initially, i wasnt really much of a fan of this and thought of this as another meat is murder type album where the songwriting is just lacking something for me. after listening to the tracks a couple more times, i feel like i warmed up to some of the tracks, especially last night i dreamt that somebody loved me. really hit when i felt down and became my favorite track on the album. 4 personal favs: girlfriend in a coma, last night i dreamt somebody loved me
Nice eclectic mix of instruments and tones, not bad!
First time listening to a Smiths album in full and really liked it. Had a softer feel with some great tracks with my favorites being "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before" and "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me"
89/100
Good, solid, classic work from the Smiths.
It’s the Smiths not knocking it out but solid
A Rush and a Push and the Land is Ours // Death of a Disco Dancer // Girlfriend in a Coma // Stop Me If You Think You’ve Heard This One Before // Last Night I Dreamt Somebody Loved Me //
I didn't know this smiths album much but thought it was really good. More melodic than other smiths, good johnny Marr sound
Awesome album. Forget all the "derp fUcK MorrISEy chuds.". More Morriseys, fewer Billy Braggs.
Third best thing Morrissey has done after "The Queen is Dead" and shutting the fuck up. As the only person on the planet who considers this to be better than their debut, I say "hell yeah".
a rush and a push and the land is ours i started something i couldn't finish girlfriend in a coma stop me if you think you've heard this one before last night i dreamt that somebody loved me unhappy birthday i won't share you
Terrific album. But fuck Morrissey.
Four great songs balanced out with the rest of the album, which felt fairly nondescript. I think "I Started Something I Couldn't Finish" is my favorite on this album.
I think I got the Smiths mixed up with another group bc I thought I didn't like the Smiths. I really liked this though! I enjoyed the songs and the lead singer's voice. I would definitely listen again. I was very surprised.
Amazingly, for all the time I spent listening to The Smiths, I think I spent it listening to the other albums and not this one. I was vaguely familiar with "Girlfriend in a Coma" but not much else. I assume this one just wasn't around the stores I went to in high school and then I moved on. Enjoyable. Not my favorite of theirs.
This is my introduction to the Smiths and Morissey. I have certainly heard them before but have never dialed in. I found it to be an interesting album that keeps you on your toes and holds up to contemporary standards. Morissey’s voice and style are super-unique and tap into an introspective mood that others don’t. I particularly liked “I started something I couldn’t finish” and “I won’t share you”. I was consistently left pleasantly surprised by a jam that featured keys or the accordion.
87/100
Despite the blurb, I can’t imagine anyone arguing that this is the best release by the smiths. Girlfriend in a Coma is a huge hit and is a great song but the whole album is a more poppy departure from their earlier stuff. Still a great record though. Loved Paint a Vulgar Picture.
Pleasantly depressing.
listened to this album countless times before, but still an absolute classic
The worst of the Smiths albums but still an absolute banger. Ridiculous band. The fact that neither of them achieved nothing great afterwards showed how much it was lightning caught in a bottle. Well done.
Enjoy
3.6
Good stuff
Long time since I’d listened to this…it holds up well!
Very solid album, they really blow me away with the breadth and depth of the music they make, this album has just as much wow factor as the queen is dead. I will say I think this album feels a bit messy, there can be some awkward flow between and within songs. Some of the tracks also have some longer, more experimental bits that miss sometimes for me. All of these are minor points against it though. They are absolute masters of their craft, every instrument sounds so perfectly composed and energetic, and the lyrics are enigmatic as always.
It was OK, a lot of songs I didn't know
3.6 Good but not their best by a long shot. faves: I wont share you, stop me
I liked this album a lot. I've listened to various Smith songs from playlists and liked them, but the only time I listened to an album (not this one) I didn't find the whole to be that great. Not so with this album.
### In-Depth Review of "Strangeways, Here We Come" by The Smiths #### Introduction "Strangeways, Here We Come," released in 1987, is The Smiths' fourth and final studio album. The album marks the end of an era for the band, as it was completed amidst internal tensions and before their eventual breakup. Known for their distinct blend of indie rock, jangle pop, and poignant lyrics, The Smiths crafted an album that has since become a significant piece in their discography. #### Lyrics Morrissey's lyrical prowess is a central feature of "Strangeways, Here We Come." His ability to weave melancholic themes with wit and literary references is evident throughout the album. - **"A Rush and a Push and the Land Is Ours"** opens the album with a somewhat cryptic take on desire and belonging, underpinned by a haunting piano melody. Morrissey's vocals reflect a sense of urgency and existential pondering. - **"I Started Something I Couldn't Finish"** deals with regret and the consequences of impulsive actions. The chorus, "Typical me, typical me, typical me," captures the self-reflective nature of Morrissey's writing. - **"Death of a Disco Dancer"** touches on themes of disillusionment and societal decay. Its repetitive structure and escalating intensity mirror the bleakness of the subject matter. - **"Girlfriend in a Coma"** is a darkly humorous take on morbidity and detachment, where Morrissey juxtaposes a catchy melody with grim subject matter. - **"Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me"** presents a more straightforwardly sorrowful narrative, exploring unfulfilled desire and loneliness. The track builds from a minimalist opening to a dramatic crescendo, underscoring the emotional weight of the lyrics. - **"Unhappy Birthday"** employs sarcasm and spite, featuring lines like, "I’ve come to wish you an unhappy birthday, because you're evil and you lie." The song's bitter tone is tempered by its upbeat rhythm. - **"Paint a Vulgar Picture"** criticizes the music industry with lines that address posthumous exploitation of artists: "Re-issue! Re-package! Re-evaluate the songs…" - **"I Won’t Share You"** closes the album on a poignant note, with Morrissey singing about personal boundaries and the refusal to compromise one's self-worth. #### Music Johnny Marr's guitar work, combined with the rhythm section of Andy Rourke (bass) and Mike Joyce (drums), creates a sound that is quintessentially The Smiths. - **"A Rush and a Push and the Land Is Ours"** features a prominent piano line, deviating from the band's typical guitar-driven sound. This choice sets a tone of experimentation for the album. - **"I Started Something I Couldn't Finish"** showcases Marr's jangly guitar riffs, coupled with a driving beat that propels the song forward. - **"Death of a Disco Dancer"** utilizes a repetitive, hypnotic guitar pattern and builds to an instrumental climax that emphasizes the song's dark themes. - **"Girlfriend in a Coma"** is marked by its brevity and catchy bassline, a stark contrast to its morbid lyrics. - **"Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me"** begins with a lengthy, atmospheric intro before launching into a powerful arrangement driven by Marr's guitar and Rourke's bass. - **"Unhappy Birthday"** and **"Paint a Vulgar Picture"** are more straightforward in their musical approach, featuring classic Smiths' jangle pop elements. - **"I Won’t Share You"** is a mellow, introspective track with a gentle guitar line that complements Morrissey's plaintive vocals. #### Production Produced by Morrissey and Marr with Stephen Street, "Strangeways, Here We Come" benefits from a polished yet organic sound. The production balances clarity and texture, allowing each instrument to shine without overshadowing Morrissey's distinctive voice. - The **mix** is clean and emphasizes the interplay between Marr's guitar and the rhythm section. This clarity is particularly noticeable in tracks like "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me," where the layers of instrumentation build effectively. - The use of **studio effects** is subtle but impactful. For example, the echo and reverb on Morrissey's vocals in "Death of a Disco Dancer" enhance the song's haunting atmosphere. - The album's overall **sound** maintains the essence of The Smiths' earlier work while incorporating slight innovations, such as the prominent use of keyboards and piano. #### Themes "Strangeways, Here We Come" delves into themes of existential angst, disillusionment, and societal critique. Morrissey's lyrics often explore personal and social issues with a blend of introspection and sardonic humor. - **Existential angst** is a recurring theme, particularly in songs like "A Rush and a Push and the Land Is Ours" and "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me," where Morrissey reflects on longing and identity. - **Disillusionment** with society and the music industry is evident in "Death of a Disco Dancer" and "Paint a Vulgar Picture." These tracks criticize the superficiality and exploitation inherent in modern culture. - **Personal relationships** and their complexities are explored in "Girlfriend in a Coma" and "I Won’t Share You," where Morrissey navigates themes of love, detachment, and self-preservation. #### Influence "Strangeways, Here We Come" has had a lasting impact on the indie and alternative music scenes. The Smiths' ability to combine lyrical depth with accessible melodies has influenced countless artists. - Bands like **Radiohead** and **The Stone Roses** have cited The Smiths as a major influence, particularly in their approach to integrating introspective lyrics with innovative music. - The album's blend of **jangle pop and alternative rock** has inspired a generation of guitar bands, including **R.E.M.** and **Oasis**. - Morrissey's lyrical style, characterized by its **literary references** and **emotional honesty**, has left a lasting mark on the genre, influencing lyricists such as **Jarvis Cocker** of Pulp and **Brandon Flowers** of The Killers. #### Pros and Cons **Pros:** - **Lyrical Depth**: Morrissey's lyrics are intelligent, witty, and poignant, offering listeners a rich tapestry of themes to explore. - **Musical Innovation**: Johnny Marr's guitar work and the incorporation of keyboards and piano add new dimensions to The Smiths' sound. - **Production Quality**: The album's production is polished, allowing the intricacies of the music to be appreciated fully. - **Consistency**: Despite the band's internal tensions, the album maintains a high level of quality across all tracks. **Cons:** - **Lyrical Obscurity**: Some listeners might find Morrissey's lyrics overly cryptic or alienating. - **Repetition**: Certain musical motifs are repeated across the album, which could be perceived as monotonous by some listeners. - **Emotional Weight**: The heavy themes and melancholic tone might not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking more upbeat music. #### Conclusion "Strangeways, Here We Come" stands as a testament to The Smiths' unique ability to blend lyrical sophistication with musical innovation. The album's exploration of complex themes, coupled with its polished production and influential sound, cements its place in the pantheon of great alternative albums. While it may not be universally accessible due to its introspective and melancholic nature, it remains a vital piece of The Smiths' legacy and a significant influence on the music that followed.
Inconsistent but still great.
It was the Smiths, so at least a 4 from me. It’s that melancholy sad boy shit that I like.
I always found this album to be a bit of a disappointment, squeezed as it is between the superior 'The Queen is dead' and Morrissey's ridiculously good post-break up debut, 'Viva Hate'. However, it's still a good album despite the overblown 'Last night I dreamt somebody loved me' and the pedestrian 'Girlfriend in a coma'. However, it does contain some absolute classics, from the hilarious 'Stop me if you think that you've heard this one before' to the unsung 'Unhappy birthday'. However, my favourite is the poignant closing track, 'I won't share you', something that always brings a tear to my eye as it was the last new material released before their untimely demise 37 (37!!) years ago. Great album!
Último álbum de estudio de los Smiths cuando la relación entre Morrissey y Johnny Marr amenazaba ya la existencia del grupo, y más que digna despedida. No alcanza el nivel de su predecesor, The Queen Is Dead, pero aun así consigue consolidar el sonido de la banda con temas de rock alternativo de altura. Es el caso de la enérgica canción sobre el arrepentimiento "I Started Something I Couldn't Finish"; la emotiva y romántica tragedia "Girlfriend in a Coma"; de nuevo el remordimiento por acciones pasadas de "Stop Me if You Think You've Heard This One Before", la canción que más me gusta del disco; "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" sobre la soledad y el deseo de amor frustrado; o "I Won't Share You", sobre la individualidad y la fugacidad de la vida.
The Smiths are rad. This was rad.
The Smiths are not for everyone, but they were/are for me. For added bittersweetness, this was a very fine swan song that holds up well over the decades.