New Music From Morrissey
Wit, wisdom and woe turned up to ten.
I can only assume the opening sounds of "I'm Throwing My Arms Around Paris" is Morrissey revving the engine of a classic silverish Vespa scooter. Yes, I'll admit it; I've had dreams of riding around Paris with my arms wrapped around Stephen Patrick Morrissey. One hand grasping his mid-section while I wave to passers-by and mouth the word "Ciao!" Many of you have most likely had the same dream.
If you've never been a fan of Morrissey then I say you are not a true fan of pop. For what is pop music but lamenting lost loves and love never found? And you will be hard pressed to find a lyricist who expresses the concept of love and loss better than Morrissey. His fans remain the most passionate and obsessive people in the history of pop music. To them he is a living deity whose lyrics are scripture; a man whose personal life a mystery best left unsolved.
The Mozzer has set a considerably steady pace since his supposed melancholic come back with 2004's You Are The Quarry. Keeping busy with a constant recording, touring and sweaty shirt throwing regiment - the 49-year-old Morrissey shows no signs of stopping.
His latest album, Years Of Refusal, was the final project helmed by celebrated pop-punk producer Jerry Finn. Tracking all instruments live, Finn brings the raw rocking charm of 1992's Your Arsenal, a sound sure to please Morrissey's inner love for The New York Dolls. Gone is the sheen and dreary contrast of Ringleader Of The Tormentors, replaced instead with the balls-out energy Pete Doherty wishes he could still muster.
Years Of Refusal will be available via Lost Highway February 17. U.S tour begins in the Spring with The Courteeners as support.
Posted by Joe Roth on Jan 07, 2009 @ 7:30 am
