The Smiths - The Queen Is Dead - Classic Album Review

Music Review | 10th July, 2024 The Smiths - The Queen Is Dead

In 1986 actor Tom Cruse was flying high with the release of Top Gun, Diego Maradona was leading Argentina to World Cup victory (with a little help from God) and The Smiths released their highly praised third album, The Queen Is Dead.

Regarded as one of their finest moments, and a fan favorite, The Smiths set the bar with the opening title track The Queen Is Dead.

A sound that was years ahead of anything else released at the time, the track gave a hint of what was to emerge from the Madchester scene a number of years later.

The album is packed with amazing music and flows along nicely with each track playing its part. Personally one of my favorite tracks is Frankly, Mr. Shankly, reputed to have been addressed to Geoff Travis, head of the Smiths' first record label Rough Trade. The track has a funny rhythm and sound, showing a different side to The Smiths.

Marr shows he has more to him than just jangle guitars with the acoustic I Know Its Over showing a delicate side to The Smiths while Cemetary Gates captures Morrissey's humor, joking about plagiarism and originality.

Marrs creative genius in the studio shines throughout the album, in particular the layers of guitars forming The Boy With The Torn On His Side, Big Mouth Strikes Again and There Is A Light That Goes Out, while Morriseys dark lyrics form a great counterpart.

and if a ten tone truck kills the both of us, to die by your side, the pleasure the privilege is mine (There Is A Light That Goes Out)

Every track on the album is solid and captures The Smiths at the top of their game in the studio. Each member plays an equal part from Morriseys imaginative lyrics, Marrs studio wizardry and the rock solid rhythm section of Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce.

Since its release in 1986 The Queen Is Dead has remained a fan favorite and sounds as fresh now as it did the day it was released.

Photo Credit: The Beat.ie

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