The Smiths - The Smiths (LP)

The Smiths: Morrissey (vocals); Johnny Marr (guitar, harmonica); Andy Rourke (bass); Mike Joyce (drums). Recorded at Pluto and Eden Studios, Manchester, and Matrix and Strawberry Studios, London in the winter of 1983. This self-titled opening salvo of the Smiths' four-year war with mediocrity stands proud as one of the era's most innovative and unique works. Flying in the face of the pomp and artifice that prevailed in pop music at the time, the Smiths raged against their makeup- wearing, synth-playing contemporaries and squarely put rock back on the agenda. Guitarist Johnny Marr married the tunesmanship and harmonic richness of his Motown heroes with the rage of punk, while Morrissey's bedroom confessionals were catnip to England's (and later the world's) disenfranchised youth. THE SMITHS demanded, and received, instant attention, desirable and otherwise, making a reluctant guitar hero out of Marr and a poster boy out of Morrissey. The jarring juxtaposition between Marr's lilting, densely-layered guitar lines and Morrissey's lyrics and plaintive delivery makes magic of "This Charming Man" (whose theme of sexual ambiguity was to remain prevalent in the group's work) and the gentle major-seventh chords of "I Don't Owe You Anything." The tender "Suffer Little Children," a paean to a group of murdered children in the band's native Manchester, gave the band their first (though far from their last) taste of public controversy.

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Ah, "The Smiths" by The Smiths. This debut album, released on February 20, 1984, is a cornerstone of the indie rock scene and a defining moment in the 1980s music landscape. The Smiths, hailing from Manchester, England, brought a fresh sound that was both a throwback to the jangly guitars of the 1960s and a precursor to the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s.

The album opens with "Reel Around the Fountain," a track that immediately sets the tone with its melancholic yet melodic vibe. Morrissey's distinctive voice, with its unique blend of vulnerability and wit, pairs perfectly with Johnny Marr's intricate guitar work. Marr's guitar playing is often celebrated for its chiming, melodic style, which was a stark contrast to the synth-heavy music dominating the charts at the time.

One of the standout tracks, "This Charming Man," was actually released as a single prior to the album and helped to establish The Smiths' reputation. It's a perfect example of the band's ability to craft catchy, upbeat tunes with lyrics that are anything but straightforward. Morrissey's lyrics often explore themes of alienation, love, and social commentary, delivered with a poetic flair that has made him a cult figure.

"Still Ill" and "Hand in Glove" are other highlights, showcasing the band's knack for combining introspective lyrics with infectious melodies. "Hand in Glove" was the band's first single and remains a fan favorite, with its raw energy and defiant spirit.

Critically, "The Smiths" was well-received, with many praising the band's originality and the chemistry between Morrissey and Marr. The album was a commercial success in the UK, reaching number two on the UK Albums Chart. It didn't make as much of an impact in the US initially, but over time, it has gained a significant following and is now considered a classic.

The production of the album, handled by John Porter, has been a topic of discussion among fans and critics. Some feel that the production is a bit too polished, not quite capturing the raw energy of the band's live performances. However, others appreciate the clarity and balance it brings to the intricate arrangements.

In terms of cultural significance, "The Smiths" helped to define the sound of British indie music in the 1980s. The band's influence can be heard in countless artists that followed, from The Stone Roses to Oasis, and even across the pond in bands like R.E.M. and The Cure.

The album's cover art, featuring a still from the film "Un Chant d'Amour," is another example of the band's penchant for combining music with visual art, a trend that would continue throughout their career.

Overall, "The Smiths" is more than just a debut album; it's a statement of intent from a band that would go on to become one of the most influential of their era. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, this album is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the early days of a band that would leave an indelible mark on music history.