ENCORE OF THE MONTH
April, 2022
The Smiths
The Smiths were an indie rock band that showed the major labels you can get to the top without them. The band was signed to independent label Rough Trade and it was a match made in Heaven. The band's first album was an instant classic and it cemented the band as one to watch. 'What Difference Does it Make?' was the third single from the album and was their first song to break into the UK charts.
The band's unique sound was shaped by the haunting voice of Morrissey and the guitar wunderkind Johnny Marr. The band has been nominated twice for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and it is only a matter of when not if. 'Meat is Murder' was the band's second studio album and it went straight to number 1 and stayed there for 13 weeks. It is an album that is jam-packed with songs to love. The album is listed in the 1001 albums you must hear before you die, so if you are new to The Smiths you need to have a listen.'That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore' is a power ballad from the album and is a song written to be heard live.
The band released four studio before everything imploded. All four albums have made their way onto many greatest albums of all time lists. 'The Queen is Dead' is the band's third album and it is loved by millions around the planet. 'Bigmouth Strikes Again' was inspired by the Rolling Stone's song'Jumping Jack Flash'.
There are so many great songs on the album. 'Cemetery Gates' and 'Never Had One Ever' are two that immediately jump to mind. Another song from the album that would be a tragedy not to mention is 'The Boy with the Thorn in His Side'.
The band's final album 'Strangeways, Here I Come' was hailed by many as the band's best album. I'm not so sure it is possible to pick a best album. If you had to pick it would be a very strong contender but I think 'The Smiths' and 'The Queen is Dead' would be tough ones to ignore. 'Last Night I Dreamt that Somebody Loved Me' was a song from the last album. Both Morrissey and Marr named it to be the best Smith's song.
Morrissey and Johnny Marr were the songwriting powerhouse that drove the band's unique sound. Johnny's guitar style inspired a generation, everyone from Stone Roses through to Oasis. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Salford for outstanding achievement and changing the face of British guitar music. Not bad for an indie rock artist. There is hope for us all.
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