Is the Queen Dead? (The Queen Is Dead - The Smiths)

Member Name: JJJJ

Product:	The Queen Is Dead - The Smiths
Date:	29/11/08 (160 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Some Classic Tracks

Disadvantages: n/a

'The Queen is Dead' is the third studio album from Manchester based alternative-rock band The Smiths. Released in 1986, it contains some classic tracks including the excellent 'Bigmouth Strikes Again', and 'The Boy with the Thorn in his Side'. The album reached number 2 in the UK charts, and is now recognised as a superb collection of songs.

I remember when I first heard The Smiths, many years ago now, and I just didn't get it - I used to think that all the songs sounded the same, and were all somewhat bland. However, i'm glad I persevered with the sound, as I now recognise The Smiths as the most important and influential alternative-rock band of the 80's.

I'm not going to single out every track on the album - as they are all good in their own way - However, there are some excellent individual songs - featuring though-provoking yet hilarious lyrics, and great layered rhythm guitar work.

My favourite track on the album, which you may find to be a strange choice, is 'Some Girls are Bigger than Others', which in my opinion is incredibly catchy and funny at the same time. It is without doubt lighthearted rather than being dark and disturbed as many Smith's tracks can be.

Following along the same light route is 'The Boy with the Thorn in His Side', which is certainly a classic. It has inspired many cover versions by various artists over the years - even the legendary Jeff Buckley has had a go.

'There is a Light That Never Goes Out' is an absolute gem of songwriting. The focus is most definitely on death and generally being miserable - yet the track is still funny and thought provoking -

"If a ten-tonne truck kills the both of us, to die by your side, well the pleasure and privilege is mine".

'Bigmouth Strikes Again' is one of the Smith's better known tracks. Opening with a classic piece of fast paced strumming, Morrissey doesn't disappoint with some hilarious lyrics, which don't really fit with the positive sound of the song - but work better for it -

"Sweetness... Sweetness, I was only joking when I said, by rights you should be bludgeoned in your bed". !!

There's a fairly decent cover version of Big Mouth Strikes again from Placebo, which can be found on youtube - although i'm not going to post the link, as it always comes out scrambled when I try to post links on dooyoo!

The Queen Is Dead is an excellent album, and arguably the Smiths best. Morrissey and Marr combine beautifully to create a brilliantly layered and textured sound which is both depressing and uplifting at the same time (is that possible?!). Highly recommended.

1. Queen Is Dead
2. Frankly Mr Shankly
3. I Know It's Over
4. Never Had No One Ever
5. Cemetry Gates
6. Bigmouth Strikes Again
7. Boy With The Thorn In His Side
8. Vicar In A Tu Tu
9. There Is A Light That Never Goes Out
10. Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others

The CD costs £4.98 from Amazon, although it isn't available as a download from the iTunes store.

Summary: Excellent Album