- Label
- Decca
- Release date
- 16th February 2009
- Genre
- Indie
- Buy this album
- Order CD
Heaven knows he’s slightly less miserable than he used to be.
A sudden interest in comedy photography aside Morrissey appears content to play to stereotype on his ninth studio solo album. Featuring the grumpiest collection of song titles imaginable – I’m OK By Myself, Sorry Doesn’t Help, It’s Not Your Birthday Anymore - he may as well have called it The Pope Of Mope and locked himself in his bedroom for the duration.
Surprisingly though, despite the familiar narrative, this is his most instantly likable and melodically pleasing collection since his return from exile in 2004. There’s less of the maudlin drawn out “epics” that have dragged down his previous two albums and a lighter pop-friendly focus (now with added mariachi trumpets).
However, despite these moves to open up Morrissey remains an artist that’s constantly reigned in by the limited capabilities of his backing band. Bless ‘em, they’re a loyal boys brigade but their leader needs new collaborators (or an old one in the form of Johnny Marr) if he is to make a properly interesting record again.
More to try:
White Lies: To Lose My Life
Antony & The Johnsons: The Crying Light
Glasvegas: Glasvegas
