Morrissey
Years of Refusal

I wonder how many have asked themselves what the "necessary" half was, the magical ingredient of that potion called The Smiths. At times, it was thought that the treasure chest of a thousand wonders was guarded by Johnny Marr. This was especially during the initial period of separation, which saw Morrissey stumble upon works sometimes of decent writing (Viva hate) other times embarrassing (Kill Uncle).

But then you discover an album like "You are the Quarry (2004)" and understand that Moz still knows how to offer extraordinary words on delicious plates with more than comforting musical flavors. Again, the gloominess of "Ringleader Of The Tormentors" (2006), although supported by production work far from predictable, emphasized the notion that Morrissey is someone who can hardly repeat himself and that the danger of inconclusiveness lurks in wait. Fortunately, "Years of Refusal" is an excellent album, and I say this while curbing the enthusiasm that the duty of writing imposes on me, as it surpasses both "You are the quarry" and "Vauxhall & I" (1994), an album I greatly loved.

What convinces me most about this album is the compactness of sound and the decidedly fresh and engaging hype, something not to be overlooked if we consider the not-so-young age of our Mancunian. The guitar-driven verve, to which Jeff Beck also contributes in "Black Cloud," is further enriched by a vocal performance this time truly above average. Indeed, this is the added value of the work: a voice that leaves behind the pathos (this time just a not-even-so-exaggerated slow) and climbs into highs with wonderful openings that would make anyone with a bit of technical knowledge shiver.

The tracks themselves confirm the Morrissey/Boorer/Whyte template. This time, however, they seem more successful and more unabashedly pop compared to Ringleader. As for the lyrics, there is a slight step back in poetic exploration. Even a certain cynicism is abandoned in favor of lyrics that are personal but less refined. However, beware: Morrissey's "banal" corresponds to the "high" of certain Coldplay and Oasis + a thousand other little bands, so we're always on solid ground. The idea of including again the two tracks released as singles in last year's collection, "That's how people grow old" and "All you need is me," does not look bad at all, as they fit well within the mood of an album that knows no slump. Essentially, a very balanced album with a Morrissey vocally in a state of grace and with at least five big singles and two masterpieces: "Something is squeezing my skull" and "It's not your birthday anymore".

A candidate for album of the year.