Released 40 years ago today
The Queen Is Dead
The Smiths · 1986
37 min · 10 tracks · indie rock · new wave · post-punk
A biting fusion of jangly guitars and sardonic lyrics that encapsulates British disillusionment in the mid-'80s.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- biting wit with sardonic humor
- wave-like pacing with peaks
- headphone detail hunting experience
- cathartic moments of reflection
- sing-along anthems for groups
Maybe skip if you want
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- avoid introspective lyrical content
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on June 16, 1986, 'The Queen Is Dead' was The Smiths' third studio album, following their critically acclaimed sophomore effort, 'Meat Is Murder'. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their reputation as a leading voice in indie rock while grappling with increasing fame and internal tensions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Cure· Joy Division· Echo & the Bunnymen
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Queen Is Dead 6:24
- 2 Frankly, Mr. Shankly 2:19
- 3 I Know It’s Over 5:49
- 4 Never Had No One Ever 3:37
- 5 Cemetry Gates 2:41
- 6 Bigmouth Strikes Again 3:14
- 7 The Boy With the Thorn in His Side 3:17
- 8 Vicar in a Tutu 2:22
- 9 There Is a Light That Never Goes Out 4:03
- 10 Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others 3:14
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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