The Smiths Vinyl Records Lps For Sale

Check out these new and used The Smiths vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your The Smiths vinyl collection with the essential albums The Smiths, Meat Is Murder and The Queen Is Dead. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.

The Smiths Vinyl Record Lps For Sale

The Smiths: A Pioneering Force in Indie Music

The Genesis of The Smiths

The Smiths, an iconic band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of the 1980s, left an indelible mark on the indie music landscape. Formed in 1982 in Manchester, England, the band consisted of vocalist Morrissey, guitarist Johnny Marr, bassist Andy Rourke, and drummer Mike Joyce. Their unique blend of melancholic lyrics, Morrissey’s distinctive voice, and Marr’s jangly guitar work set them apart from their contemporaries.

Albums That Defined an Era

1. “The Smiths” (1984)

The eponymous debut album, released in 1984, marked The Smiths‘ entry into the music scene. The album features classic tracks like “This Charming Man” and “Hand in Glove,” showcasing Morrissey’s introspective lyrics and Marr’s intricate guitar arrangements. “The Smiths” laid the foundation for their signature sound, combining indie pop with poetic lyricism.

2. “Meat Is Murder” (1985)

The band’s second studio album, “Meat Is Murder,” released in 1985, delves into socio-political themes. The title track, a fervent critique of animal cruelty, stands as a bold statement. The album’s sonic palette expands with tracks like “How Soon Is Now?” showcasing Marr’s experimentation with guitar effects. “Meat Is Murder” solidified The Smiths’ reputation for pushing boundaries in both music and message.

3. “The Queen Is Dead” (1986)

Widely regarded as one of their masterpieces, “The Queen Is Dead” (1986) captures The Smiths at the height of their creative prowess. The title track, along with songs like “Bigmouth Strikes Again” and “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out,” showcases the band’s ability to intertwine Morrissey’s poetic lyricism with Marr’s intricate guitar work. The album’s dark yet humorous undertones resonate as a quintessential representation of The Smiths’ musical ethos.

4. “Strangeways, Here We Come” (1987)

Released in 1987, “Strangeways, Here We Come” marked The Smiths’ final studio album. Despite internal tensions within the band, the album remains a testament to their artistic integrity. Tracks like “I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish” and “Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me” continue to be celebrated for their emotive power. The album’s departure from their earlier sound foreshadowed the individual trajectories of Morrissey and Marr after the band’s disbandment.

The Smiths’ Artistic Evolution

1. Morrissey’s Poetic Lyricism

Central to The Smiths’ allure was Morrissey’s lyrical prowess. His introspective and often melancholic lyrics explored themes of love, loneliness, and societal critique. Morrissey’s unique ability to convey complex emotions through his words resonated with a generation searching for authenticity in music.

2. Marr’s Guitar Wizardry

Johnny Marr’s guitar work played a pivotal role in shaping The Smiths’ sound. Marr’s jangly and intricate guitar riffs became synonymous with the band’s identity. His ability to seamlessly blend various musical influences, from rockabilly to post-punk, showcased a guitarist with a distinctive style and an ear for innovation.

Musical Legacy and Influence

1. Bands Inspired by The Smiths

The Smiths’ influence extends far beyond their active years. Numerous bands have cited them as a primary source of inspiration. Indie and alternative acts such as Radiohead, Belle and Sebastian, and The Arctic Monkeys have acknowledged The Smiths’ impact on their musical journey. The band’s ability to marry poignant lyrics with catchy melodies set a precedent for future generations of indie musicians.

2. Post-Smiths Projects

After The Smiths disbanded in 1987, both Morrissey and Marr pursued successful solo careers. Morrissey continued to release albums that maintained his signature lyrical style, while Marr collaborated with various artists and formed bands like Electronic. The individual successes of Morrissey and Marr post-Smiths era underscored the lasting impact of their artistic contributions.

The Smiths in the Context of 80s Music

1. Cultural and Social Commentary

The Smiths emerged during a period of social and political upheaval in the UK. Their lyrics often addressed societal issues, providing a voice for a generation grappling with identity and change. The band’s ability to infuse their music with cultural and social commentary marked them as more than just a musical entity; they were cultural observers and commentators.

2. Visual Aesthetics and Iconography

In addition to their musical impact, The Smiths embraced a distinctive visual aesthetic. The album covers, featuring evocative imagery and iconic symbols, became an integral part of their identity. The intersection of music and visual art showcased The Smiths’ commitment to a holistic artistic expression.

Similar Bands and Contemporaries

1. Echo & the Bunnymen

Hailing from Liverpool, Echo & the Bunnymen shared a sonic landscape with The Smiths. Both bands were instrumental in defining the alternative rock sound of the 1980s. Echo & the Bunnymen’s dark, atmospheric compositions paralleled The Smiths’ melancholic yet melodic approach.

2. The Cure

Another influential band of the era, The Cure, shared thematic similarities with The Smiths. Both bands explored themes of love, alienation, and introspection. The Cure’s Robert Smith, like Morrissey, became an iconic figure known for his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics.

Conclusion

The Smiths, with their brief but impactful tenure, left an indelible mark on the indie music landscape. Their ability to blend Morrissey’s poignant lyricism with Johnny Marr’s innovative guitar work created a sound that resonated with a generation. Beyond their musical contributions, The Smiths became cultural icons, influencing not only their contemporaries but also shaping the trajectory of indie and alternative music for years to come.

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