THE SMITHS – Hatful of Hollow (1984)
However brief their stint in the 80s, The Smiths became authorities in balancing acquiescence and rebelliousness. Though lead vocalist Morrissey is possibly one of the most intolerable men in music, he was an unwavering original, an asexual and introvert in the midst of binging stardom. Having learned to be comfortable in his awkwardness from a young age, his cynicism translates more as relatable criticism than faddish pessimism. Cutting to the heart of the teenage psyche with diary ramblings and direct poetry, his lyrics hit both male and female perspectives; ambiguous and moldable to the listener, perfectly coupled with guitarist Johnny Marr’s vibrant pop riffs to make whiney melodies listenable. If you identify with the pains of life as a true eccentric, listen. Every line in Hatful of Hollow is a satisfying relationship, a beautifully dramatic and comforting rant, a reminder of humanity, and the lonely one’s friend.
