The Smiths – Meat Is Murder

Flatter than a tortilla... sounds as if it was ripped from a poor CD copy. Back to sender...

This is the only pressing I've heard of this fantastic album. I don't know exactly why, but the sound on several of the songs just doesn't hit right. It works on some of the tunes, especially slower ones like "Well I Wonder", but the more dynamic/louder songs come across a bit harsh and unpleasant. It could just be the recording, but I have a feeling this record could be presented in a better way. Pressing quality is good, though.

I have one, but on brown vinyl. Sounds pretty good even though it’s probably sourced from a CD.

A tad light in the low frequencies. I’ve heard better.

This pressing sounds awesome. No sibilance; I’m always dreading that. This is quiet with an exceptional clarity.

This UK pressing sounds amazing. This is probably digital recording, but sounds fresh, soft and crispy. The sound is well balanced, the bass sounds big, deep and is with lot of detals. Top end is transparent and airy.

My version doesn't sound really good. The Spotify and CD version has more detail and brilliance. It's a recording from 1985 and was probably produced for CD release. You can listen to it, but if you want the best, look for the expensive version.

I really like the sonic signature of the mastering here. I got it NM, very silencious, not a single click or crac. It is a very clear sounding records, quite agressive and dry. As others states, if there is a dryness color of the sound, I see it as the main sounding caracteristics of the post new wave era. This is the kind of sound that I expect from a band like the Smiths.
Previously, I didn't take care so much about The Smiths in my musical journey. I have already listen them (cd, k7 maybe) but I never entered in connection with their sound & melodies. Luckily to me, I found a quite cheap copy of this particular version of the album, an original first press, I couldn't let it behind me. I bought it.
And you know what, I found myself loving this album. The more I listen it, the more I love it.
Therefore, because it is the version of my connexion with The Smiths, I have to say this pressing is really good for me.

A musically furious jangle pop Post-Hardcore album w/ brilliant brisk guitar riffs, ridiculously dramatic & melancholic lyrics all bursting w/ raw energy, harmonic invention & whimsey. It's eerie, beautiful & the Smiths' most consistent effort w/ outstanding muscular production by Stephen Street. There isn't a true dud on it.
What the Smiths were all about - in excelsis.

Nice soundstage, however the cymbals and singing exhibit fair amount of sibilance. Can’t do more than 3*