Meat Is Murder (1985) - The Smiths

 

Released in 1985, Meat Is Murder is the second studio album by The Smiths, and it stands as a crucial release in the band’s catalog. This album showcases the development of The Smiths' unique sound, combining jangle pop and post-punk with more politically charged and socially conscious lyrics. It features the signature lyrical style of Morrissey, paired with Johnny Marr’s innovative guitar work. Together, they explore themes of consumerism, societal expectations, and moral dilemmas, making Meat Is Murder a provocative statement that defined an era.

Key Tracks

1. The Headmaster Ritual – The album opens with this song, featuring a jangly guitar riff and tackling the topic of authoritarianism in British schools. Morrissey's lyrics criticize the physical abuse and harsh discipline practiced by school authorities, painting a bleak picture of his own educational experiences.

2. Rusholme Ruffians – A melancholic yet catchy tune, this song is a tale of working-class life in Manchester. It juxtaposes a jaunty rockabilly-inspired rhythm with dark lyrics about street violence and social despair.

3. I Want the One I Can’t Have – A song about longing and desire, it balances upbeat instrumentation with Morrissey's typically melancholic and sardonic lyrics. It delves into themes of unfulfilled ambition and sexual frustration.

4. What She Said – One of the more rock-oriented tracks on the album, it’s a fast-paced song that contrasts driving guitar riffs with lyrics that convey a sense of desperation and emotional struggle.

5. That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore – A slower, melancholic ballad with haunting guitar work, this song delves into feelings of loneliness and alienation, highlighting Morrissey's introspective and vulnerable side.

6. How Soon Is Now? – Although not originally part of the UK release, this song is often included in the US versions and later reissues of the album. It features one of The Smiths' most famous riffs and deals with themes of isolation and the desire for connection.

7. Nowhere Fast – With upbeat, jaunty instrumentation, this track carries a cynical tone as it addresses the mundanity of everyday life, highlighting Morrissey's disdain for the complacency of modern society.

8. Barbarism Begins at Home – A funk-inspired track with an unforgettable bassline, it deals with domestic abuse and the cyclical nature of violence. It's one of the longer tracks on the album, allowing for an extended instrumental exploration that showcases Marr's guitar skills.

9. Meat Is Murder – The title track is a haunting closer, and it is The Smiths' most overtly political song. It condemns the meat industry, using the refrain “Meat is Murder” to criticize animal cruelty and factory farming practices. The track’s haunting instrumental arrangement and animal sound samples make it a poignant anthem for animal rights and vegetarianism.

Meat Is Murder was a landmark album for its time, shifting The Smiths from their earlier introspective, emotionally-driven songs to more overtly political and social commentary. The title track in particular made a significant impact, as Morrissey's strong advocacy for vegetarianism inspired many fans to reconsider their eating habits. The album’s critique of authority, social norms, and the darker side of everyday life resonated deeply with a disillusioned youth, marking it as an essential record for fans of 1980s alternative music.

Johnny Marr’s guitar work on Meat Is Murder was pivotal in cementing The Smiths' distinctive sound, blending jangly riffs with post-punk and rockabilly influences. Andy Rourke’s basslines, especially on tracks like "Barbarism Begins at Home," introduced a groove that stood out among their contemporaries. The band's tight musicianship, combined with Morrissey’s lyrical wit and distinct vocal delivery, created an album that was both sonically innovative and thematically challenging.

Meat Is Murder is often considered one of The Smiths' most influential albums. It solidified their status as one of the most important bands of the 1980s and cemented Morrissey’s reputation as a provocative and controversial frontman. The album’s themes of alienation, social justice, and anti-establishment sentiments continue to resonate, making it a staple in discussions about political music and its power to inspire change.

Meat Is Murder remains a vital piece of The Smiths’ discography, not only for its bold message but also for its seamless blend of musicality and meaning. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to pair catchy melodies with serious and often uncomfortable topics, which is why it continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.