The Smiths - Meat Is Murder

The album is heavily defined by its title track, which serves as a militant, pro-vegetarian, and anti-animal cruelty anthem. Morrissey, the band's frontman and a strict vegetarian, made this stance a central theme of the record. The album also tackles themes of child abuse, corporal punishment, and the Moors murderers.

The signature jangly guitar style on the record was played by Johnny Marr, who layered intricate, melodic lines beneath Morrissey's distinct vocal melodies. Marr's playing drew heavy inspiration from 1960s jangle pop and rockabilly. The album was released in 1985 through Rough Trade Records.

Aside from the title track, the album features classic Smiths songs like "The Headmaster Ritual" and "That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore." It also includes "How Soon Is Now?", which was added to the U.S. release of the album. These tracks perfectly showcase the band's blend of melancholic lyrics with upbeat, intricate instrumentation.

Yes, the album became The Smiths' first record to top the UK Albums Chart when it was released in early 1985. This success established them as one of the most important alternative rock bands in Britain. It remained on the chart for 13 weeks initially, driven by their rapidly growing cult fanbase.