The Smiths – The Queen is Dead

This weeks selection includes a classic Indie Pop record from non other than the Smiths. Now without getting into the politics surrounding one of the former band members, which should be totally ignored when considering the Smiths as a whole, this is the bands most celebrated album for a reason. It’s somber and fun all at the same time and all the upbeat rockin’ will surely tickle your bones!

The album starts off with the title track, surely a melancholic tune as the name would suggest that “The Queen Is Dead.” Although melancholic the instrumental has this slight groove to it that really gives it a kick. The following track,”Frankly, Mr. Shankly,” is probably my favorite out of the track just because of how enjoyable and funny I find it. It’s the first real upbeat natured track in the listing and it’s basically a conversation between the a fame starved individual and Mr. Shankly, and towards the end the fame starved individual just calls Mr. Shankly an ass while begging for money. I really just can’t get enough of it, but moving on we have “Cemetry Gates.” Another oddball that’s talking about meeting someone at the cemetery gate with these transcending guitars that really make you want to meet with this person. Oh and if I didn’t point it out, Morrissey, the lead singer, has a somewhat melancholic voice so the bright songs in this album usually is guided with that but with some variation. The last song I’d like to talk about is, “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” which is the second to last song and is one of the truly somber tracks in the LP. From what I’ve taken from it, it’s about a person whos got nothing to lose and is ready to meet his fate at any time.

Overall, a very nice album and I’m sure an even more enjoyable discography from the Smiths.