The ‘80s New Wave era produced tons of bands and acts that continue to be influential in the indie and alternative scene of the late 2010s. The list includes U2, New Order, and Tears for Fears. But one band truly stands out—despite having disbanded way back in 1987—and that’s The Smiths.
The Smiths came out in the early ‘80s and had four studio albums and tons of EPs various compilations that continue to be must-haves among collectors. The sound was immediately very novel, combining weary and gloomy post-punk lyrics with cheerful, often-jangly guitars. We’ve singer Morrissey and guitarist Johnny Marr to thank for this conflicted approach to songwriting and arrangement.
Image source: amazon.com
Homages to the band continue decades after, from current alternative acts covering songs to movies like "500 Days of Summer" revolving around characters that grew up listening to dour Morrissey lyrics. The band has even figured massively in the listening preferences of most millennials and hipsters. Must-listen anthems include “How Soon is Now,” “There is a Light that Never Goes Out,” “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now,” and “This Charming Man.”
After all, powerful lines such as “I’m the son and the heir/ of a shyness that is criminally vulgar” or “I was happy in the haze of a drunken hour/but Heaven knows I’m miserable now” are universally angsty, appealing claims. Especially as Marr provides those warm, optimistic guitars in the background. Listening to The Smiths is being both happy and sad at the same time. And that innate paradox is what makes this band truly stand out and endure.
Image source: independent.co.uk
Hi there! I’m Alton Ingram, a huge fan of alternative rock, football, comedy films, and fitness trends. I’m currently taking up engineering. Know more about me and my interests here.
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