The Queen Is Dead cover art
Few bands have made so big a impact on so many as The Smiths. Like America’s R.E.M., The Smiths influence went beyond Britain and is still influencing bands today.
The Smiths were taking England by storm so quickly than even in the non-internet connected world of the early ’80s, they had quickly become a college rock staple in America. Even the girly-man persona of Morrissey was not off putting in America – it may have enhanced his appeal with a new generation of college aged youngins who had no hang ups about such things.
Much of that hoopla was due to the often clever songwriting of lead vocalist Morrissey and the distinctive guitar sounds of Johnny Marr. Marr often wrote songs as well, but it was Morrissey who’s often mis credited with being the band’s primary songwriter. Others like bass player Andy Rouke could surprise with funk like chords behind the rockabilly-like playing of Marr.
In all it was an intoxicating package that seemed to get better with each release. With only four proper studio albums, it’s easy in retrospect to trace their ascent into stardom. They arguably peaked on their third album The Queen Is Dead. When released, many new fans in America were just as likely to encounter one of the many greatest hits or live albums floating around as expensive imports. For Sire Records part in America, not a lot of work was needed to promote what was one of the hottest bands of the year.
To listen to The Queen Is Dead is almost like listening to a Smiths greatest hits. The Marr-Morrissey collaboration was at it’s best with some of the most beautiful songs of the band’s discography showing up right here. Classics like “Boy With a Thorn in His Side” and the sublime “There is a Light that Never Goes Out” and “I Know It’s Over” are all accounted for as well as some of the band’s most cheeky of songs like “Some Girls are Bigger than Others” and “Big Mouth Strikes Again”.
In all the Smiths were maturing artistically while Morrissey’s lyrics went beyond the usual socially awkward situations to address politics and the environment. Off stage he was becoming increasingly outspoken, addressing his critics with humor and style.
Today we have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to music. With that in mind, The Queen Is Dead was remastered in 2017 with well over 20 outtakes and alternate versions of songs that made it to the ten track original.
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