“The Queen Is Dead” is probably The Smiths’ best album. It has a lot of my favourite tracks of theirs, and the whole thing makes for a consistent listen … but how would I rank all the tracks?
Before we begin, you can check out some of my related blog posts below:
OK
10 – Never Had No One Ever
In the middle of some absolute bangers we get “Never Had No One Ever”, which feels tame in comparison.
It’s a lot simpler than other tracks, which is maybe why I always forget about it.
9 – Vicar in a Tutu
Fun title and a good bounciness, but “Vicar in a Tutu” passes by without much substance.
Good
8 – Frankly, Mr. Shankly
Just as bouncy – if not bouncier – than “Vicar in a Tutu”, but “Frankly, Mr. Shankly” makes more of an impact.
There are some big guitar parts and catchy lyrics I can hook onto.
7 – Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others
You’re right, Morrissey! Some girls are bigger than others!
It’s one of the stranger Smiths songs, but Johnny Marr’s vibrant guitar is always a highlight.
6 – Cemetry Gates
“Cemetry Gates” is a fan favourite and has a great chorus, but I just like the other tracks a bit more.
Great
5 – The Queen Is Dead
The album opener and title track of “The Queen Is Dead” doesn’t get nearly the credit it deserves.
It’s a bold and energetic start to the album, and it feels much more aggressive than other Smiths songs.
4 – I Know It’s Over
Immediately from the slow instrumental and evocative opening lyrics I could tell “I Know It’s Over” would be a favourite.
The verses don’t hit as hard, but the choruses are a highlight of the album.
3 – The Boy with the Thorn in His Side
One of the first Smiths songs I ever fell in love with.
“The Boy with the Thorn in His Side” is one of the most uplifting Smiths songs musically, even if the lyrics are a downer as always.
Amazing
2 – Bigmouth Strikes Again
Easily a top five Smiths song.
The vocal harmonies and downbeat guitar sound odd on first listen, but the more you play “Bigmouth Strikes Again” the more enchanting it becomes.
All-Time Great
1 – There Is a Light That Never Goes Out
I always go back and forth between this and “How Soon Is Now?” for my favourite Smiths song, but right now I’d probably say “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” takes the cake.
It’s vivid and haunting, and Morrissey’s vocals transport me to another world.
Aaaaaand that’s my list! You can check out some of my latest blog posts below:
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