Girlfriend in a Coma cover

Released 39 years ago this August

Girlfriend in a Coma

The Smiths · 1987

6 min · 3 tracks · indie rock · new wave · post-punk

A bittersweet blend of jangly guitars and melancholic lyrics that capture youthful disillusionment.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified The Smiths' status as pioneers of indie rock during peak popularity.
Themes
societal expectations· bittersweet longing
Career context
Released on August 10, 1987, 'Girlfriend in a Coma' came during The Smiths' peak popularity. This was their fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed 'The Queen Is Dead,' and it showcases the band's consistent ability to merge poignant lyrics with catchy melodies.
Stylistic neighbors
The Cure· Joy Division· Echo & the Bunnymen
If this clicks, go next to
Strangeways, Here We Come — Continues the blend of jangly guitars and introspective themes with a more mature sound.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Disintegration by The Cure — Shares a similar melancholic atmosphere with jangly guitars and introspective lyrics.
If You're Feeling Sinister by Belle and Sebastian — Captures youthful disillusionment with bittersweet melodies and reflective storytelling.
Document by R.E.M. — Combines jangly guitar work with poignant themes of societal expectations and personal longing.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Girlfriend in a Coma 2:02
  • 2 Work Is a Four‐Letter Word 2:45
  • 3 I Keep Mine Hidden 1:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata