What makes Maladjusted by Morrissey notable?

The album debuted at number 2 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing Morrissey's enduring popularity despite a tumultuous career phase. Its themes and lyrical content sparked discussions about mental health and societal alienation, resonating with fans and critics alike, though it received a mixed reception from major outlets. Maladjusted is Morrissey's sixth studio album, released in 1997, following the commercial success of his earlier albums like Your Arsenal. At this point, he was navigating a challenging phase of his career marked by critical scrutiny and mixed reviews, as he sought to redefine his sound while remaining true to his distinct lyrical style.

Who is Maladjusted for?

Maladjusted works well if you're into steady pacing for thoughtful reflection, mid-tempo flow for relaxed listening and disillusionment themes resonate deeply.

How many songs are on Maladjusted?

Maladjusted has 11 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Maladjusted

Morrissey · 1997

43 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of sardonic lyrics and melodic instrumentation that captures Morrissey's unique introspection and social critique.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Alma Matters — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of identity and belonging, encapsulating the album's themes of introspection and personal struggle.
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Satan Rejected My Soul — Offering a biting commentary on faith and societal norms, this song exemplifies Morrissey's knack for blending dark humor with serious subject matter.
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Trouble Loves Me — With its infectious melody and reflective lyrics, this track highlights Morrissey’s ability to convey vulnerability amidst a backdrop of catchy instrumentation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

52 /100

Foothills

Higher than 38% of albums we've rated

The album features strong lyrical content and varied instrumentation but lacks cohesive flow in its sequencing.

What we noticed

The first track sets a mid-tempo pace that is maintained through the first half of the album, with a noticeable shift to slower tempos in the latter half.
Several tracks feature layered instrumentation, with strings and horns complementing Morrissey's vocal lines, adding depth to the arrangements.
Lyrically, the album employs a conversational style, often using irony and wit to address themes of alienation and introspection.

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

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for thoughtful reflection
mid-tempo flow for relaxed listening
disillusionment themes resonate deeply
suitable for introspective afternoons

Maybe skip if you

seeks high-energy anthems
prefers quick, upbeat tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Represents a solid entry in Morrissey's catalog but not widely recognized as essential.
Career context: Maladjusted is Morrissey's sixth studio album, released in 1997, following the commercial success of his earlier albums like Your Arsenal. At this point, he was navigating a challenging phase of his career marked by critical scrutiny and mixed reviews, as he sought to redefine his sound while remaining true to his distinct lyrical style.
Stylistic neighbors: The Smiths· Pulp· Echo & the Bunnymen