The Smiths

The Smiths is the debut studio album by the English rock band the Smiths, released on 20 February 1984 by Rough Trade Records. A different version of the album was first recorded with producer Troy Tate, but the results were ultimately shelved in favour of a new version produced by John Porter. Recording took place intermittently in London, Manchester, and Stockport during September 1983, between dates on the band's national tour. The album's songwriting pairs Johnny Marr's bright, jangly compositions and guitar work with Morrissey's literate and melancholic lyrics. The songs touch on themes of unrequited love, isolation, identity, and social disaffection. Several tracks, including "Reel Around the Fountain" and "Suffer Little Children", attracted media attention for their controversial lyrics. Critical reception was mixed at the time, with some reviewers praising the songwriting while others criticised the production. Over time, however, retrospective assessments have recognised The Smiths as a landmark debut. It is widely considered one of the most influential British albums of the 1980s.

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