What makes Ouija Board, Ouija Board by Morrissey notable?

'Ouija Board, Ouija Board' reached number 24 on the UK Singles Chart, showcasing Morrissey's ability to maintain commercial appeal post-The Smiths. The song's themes of existential inquiry and loss resonated with listeners, ensuring its place in the alternative rock canon and influencing subsequent indie artists seeking lyrical depth. Released on November 13, 1989, 'Ouija Board, Ouija Board' was Morrissey's second solo single after his departure from The Smiths. Following the commercial success of his debut album 'Viva Hate', this track marked his continued exploration of personal themes and distinctive songwriting style as he solidified his identity as a solo artist.

How many songs are on Ouija Board, Ouija Board?

Ouija Board, Ouija Board has 3 tracks, running approximately 10 minutes.

Released 37 years ago this November

Ouija Board, Ouija Board

Morrissey · 1989

10 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

A haunting blend of jangle pop melodies and introspective lyrics draped in Morrissey's signature melancholic charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ouija Board, Ouija Board — The title track encapsulates the album's ethereal quality with its exploration of spirituality and longing through catchy yet haunting melodies.
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Yes, I Am Blind — This track offers a poignant reflection on disillusionment and vulnerability, characterized by its gentle instrumentation that complements Morrissey's emotive vocal delivery.
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East West — With its rhythmic shifts and contemplative lyrics, this song highlights Morrissey's introspective style while addressing themes of cultural displacement.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

Morrissey's single showcases strong melodies and introspective lyrics, maintaining distinctiveness while exploring varied arrangements.

What we noticed

The title track features a repetitive jangle guitar riff that underpins Morrissey's vocal delivery, creating a hypnotic effect.
The second track, 'Yes, I Am Blind', shifts to a more subdued arrangement with minimal instrumentation, emphasizing the lyrical content.

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

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.