What makes Hand in Glove by The Smiths notable?

'Hand in Glove' received critical acclaim upon its release and became a defining anthem of the early indie rock movement. It peaked at number 27 on the UK Singles Chart and is often credited with influencing a generation of alternative bands that followed. Released in 1983, 'Hand in Glove' marked The Smiths' debut single, introducing their distinctive jangle pop sound and Morrissey's poignant lyricism. This track set the stage for their subsequent self-titled debut album later that year, establishing their presence in the post-punk landscape of the UK music scene.

How many songs are on Hand in Glove?

Hand in Glove has 2 tracks, running approximately 6 minutes.

Hand in Glove

The Smiths · 1983

6 min · 2 tracks · indie rock

A jangly, melancholic soundscape filled with yearning melodies and introspective lyrics that define early 80s British indie rock.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hand in Glove — This title track encapsulates the band's signature sound with its infectious guitar riff and poignant lyrics that explore themes of love and connection.
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Handsome Devil (live) — This live rendition showcases Morrissey's charismatic stage presence and the band's raw energy, emphasizing their appeal as a live act early in their career.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

This debut single introduces The Smiths' signature sound with strong melodies and distinct lyrical themes.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent jangly guitar riff that drives the melody, while Morrissey's vocal delivery is both detached and emotive.
The song's structure includes a repeated chorus that emphasizes its central themes of longing and connection.
The live track 'Handsome Devil' showcases a rawer, more energetic performance style compared to the polished studio version.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

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

1 Hand in Glove 3:11
2 Handsome Devil (live) 2:53

What to play next

Listen next

The David Jensen Sessions

1983

Go back to

You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet, Baby

Full The Smiths discography Where to start with The Smiths Artists like The Smiths

indie rock new wave post-punk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata