Becoming one of the most influential cult bands of all time when they formed in 1982, The Smiths were a magnet for controversy. Blending a unique mix of Johnny Marr’s savvy lush guitar rhythms with the delicate vocals of Morrissey (crowned the sexually ambiguous poet), this British rock band were so much more than four incredibly talented musicians. And despite their career only lasting 5 years, their popularity only continued to grow… even decades after their split.
Crafting well thought-out, confessional lyrics, The Smiths portrayed all the obvious emotional states with their music; vulnerability and violence, sexual and social confusion, alienation and loneliness (their signature quality) and power and revenge. But it was only dramatized and uplifted by Marr’s exceptional guitar work and abilities as an arranger and producer, as he transformed it into exciting and concise melodies. Their music – even now – is often difficult to comprehend; but the indelible vocal melodies, amplified guitar sounds and carefully created lyrics were more than enough to get to you.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, The Queen is Dead is by far some of The Smiths best and most memorable work. Voted the greatest album of all time by NME in 2013, the record takes you on a very creative journey through drama, wit and pain in all its beautifully defined glory.
Renowned as the album that contains the ‘most Morrissey lyrics’, The Queen is Dead captures every heartbreaking pain with witty wording and devilishly sassy insults. Featuring hits like I Know It’s Over and The Boy With The Thorn In His Side the record flaunts depth, focus and great tunes. It’s an album to lose yourself in – and it’s easy to see why it’s become a massive influence for all things Britpop.
