Album Info
| Artist: | Johnny Marr |
| Album: | The Messenger |
| Released: | UK, 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | The Right Thing Right | |
| Backing Vocals - Sonny Marr | ||
| A2 | I Want The Heartbeat | |
| A3 | European Me | |
| Backing Vocals - Sonny Marr | ||
| Guitar [Atmosphere] - Nile Marr | ||
| A4 | Upstarts | |
| Backing Vocals - Sonny Marr | ||
| A5 | Lockdown | |
| A6 | The Messenger | |
| B1 | Generate! Generate! | |
| B2 | Say Demesne | |
| B3 | Sun And Moon | |
| B4 | The Crack Up | |
| B5 | New Town Velocity | |
| Backing Vocals - Sonny Marr | ||
| Guitar [Left Side Picking And Solo] - Nile Marr | ||
| B6 | Word Starts Attack |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
Johnny Marr's debut solo album, The Messenger, released in February 2013, marked a significant moment in the career of the legendary guitarist. Known primarily for his groundbreaking work with The Smiths, Marr had already established himself as one of the most influential guitarists of his generation. However, with The Messenger, he stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist, showcasing not only his guitar prowess but also his skills as a songwriter and vocalist.
The album is a vibrant collection of tracks that blend Marr's signature jangly guitar sound with a modern indie rock sensibility. From the opening track, "The Right Thing Right", it's clear that Marr is in his element, delivering energetic riffs and catchy melodies. The title track, "The Messenger", stands out with its driving rhythm and introspective lyrics, encapsulating the album's themes of communication and connection in a fast-paced world.
One of the album's strengths is its consistency. Tracks like "Generate! Generate!" and "Upstarts" are brimming with energy and showcase Marr's ability to craft infectious hooks. Meanwhile, songs like "New Town Velocity" offer a more reflective tone, providing a nice balance to the album's overall upbeat feel. Marr's vocals, while not as distinctive as his guitar work, are confident and suit the material well, adding a personal touch to the songs.
The production on The Messenger is crisp and polished, allowing Marr's intricate guitar work to shine. The album was recorded in Manchester and Berlin, and this duality is reflected in the music, which combines a sense of British indie rock tradition with a cosmopolitan edge. Marr handled the production himself, ensuring that his vision was fully realised.
Critics and fans alike praised The Messenger upon its release. It was seen as a strong debut that reaffirmed Marr's relevance in the contemporary music scene. The album's sound is unmistakably his, yet it feels fresh and modern, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners.
In The Messenger, Johnny Marr successfully transitions from being a legendary guitarist to a compelling solo artist. The album is a testament to his enduring talent and creativity, and it remains a highlight in his discography. For anyone who appreciates well-crafted indie rock with a touch of nostalgia, The Messenger is a must-listen.
