The Smiths: Still ILL Interviews

This DVD contains many insights of The Smith's two songwriting talents, namely Morrissey and Marr. Seen here for the first time is a less than usual guarded, open but cautious Steven Morrissey revealing much unseen, unedited and rare footage along with a very positive and sparky Johnny Marr interview from their heyday. The precise origin of the bands name is unknown, although they stated that it was a reaction against names they considered fancy and pompous. Somewhat contrarily, in a 1984 interview Morrissey stated "I decided to call ourselves The Smiths because it was the most ordinary name, and I think it's time that the ordinary folk of the world showed their faces."

The Smiths - The Complete Picture (1992)

This collection is loathed by many, and I imagine it would be a shock to those expecting slickly-produced, MTV quality videos. But we are talking about The Smiths here, not a group known for their willingness to do videos. Quite the opposite, in fact. Add in the fact that the Smiths existed during the 1980s, when even the best videos reveled in cheesy glory. :)

I quite enjoy the Top of the Pops appearances, which are what this DVD is largely comprised of. Yes, they are rather gaudy, over the top, and *very* 80s, which is precisely why I'm so fond of them. For those of us who never got to see the Smiths perform anywhere, this provides an opportunity to watch Morrissey sashay his way through many of their best known hits, complete with hearing aid and a small thicket in his back pocket.

The Derek Jarman films are visually interesting, although frankly they make me a bit dizzy. The sound quality is good, and the menu makes song selection easier. If you're a diehard fan, you should own this. If you're simply someone who liked a few of their bigger hits, well, I wouldn't bother.

Mozipedia: The Encyclopedia of Morrissey and The Smiths

Steven Patrick Morrissey is undoubtedly one of the most original musicians of all time. With The Smiths, he led the most influential British guitar group of the 1980s, and his enigmatic wit and style defined a generation. As a solo artist, he has continued to broach subjects no other singer would dare. The summation of years of interviews and meticulous research by acclaimed music journalist Simon Goddard, Mozipedia is the most in-depth and exhaustive book about the man, the myth, and the music that's ever been published. Bringing together every song, every album, every collaborator, and so much more in over 600 entries, this is a unique and sensational find for music fans and a must-have for Morrissey's legions of devoted admirers. 

MOZIPEDIA: THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF MORRISSEY AND THE SMITHS provides the first in-depth examination of Morrissey and his music, and is a 'must' for any Morrissey fan. Years of interviews and research into his life results in a gathering of every song, album, and idea relating to Steven Patrick Morrissey. 600 entries and two photo inserts lend to a 'must have' for any rock music collection or Morrissey fan.