Description
2026 reissue, 12″ LP, Warner.
Originally released in 1992 and now revisited via a new vinyl pressing, this is the second part of a two volume set and was the first time a regular best of compilation had been made of The Smiths material – despite three more idiosyncratically-compiled collections emerging during their short career. There’s an undying adoration for The Smiths and delving into this sequence of tracks is a terrific reminder of their class. ‘Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now’ is among the best moments here, with darkly humorous lines of the highest order: “Two lovers entwined pass me by/And heaven knows I’m miserable now/I was looking for a job and then I found a job/And heaven knows I’m miserable now.” ‘Still Ill’ thrives off an infectious drum beat and spidery, jangle finger picking and one of Morrissey’s best ever vocal performances with words to cherish. Manchester’s music scene in the 20th century was the envy of the world and The Smiths are one of the key reasons why.
