This week on Beers & B-Sides, we're settling into the pub with a few pints and putting one of the most influential albums of the 1980s on the turntable: The Smiths' Meat Is Murder.

Widely regarded as a landmark alternative rock record, Meat Is Murder helped cement The Smiths as one of the defining bands of their generation. But does it still hold up today, and is it really as untouchable as its reputation suggests?

As always, we kick things off by looking back at 1985, exploring some of the biggest news stories, cultural moments and events from the year the album was released before diving into the history of The Smiths and their rise to fame.

From there, we break down the album track by track, discuss our favourite songs, examine its themes and legacy, and share our honest opinions on the record. We also touch on the darker political themes within the album, the lasting impact of its title track, and the controversy that continues to surround Morrissey decades after the album's release.

This wasn't a unanimous favourite around the table. While we can appreciate the album's influence and importance, our scores and opinions might surprise some die-hard Smiths fans.

Expect plenty of laughs, pub chat, random tangents, questionable takes and the relaxed atmosphere that comes from a group of friends talking music over a few beers.

In our famous Last Orders Verdict, we answer the question:

Would we actually spend our own money to add Meat Is Murder to our vinyl collections?

🍺 Honest album review
📀 Vinyl collector perspective
🎵 Favourite tracks and standout moments
📰 A trip back to 1985
🎙️ Music history, debate and pub chat
🔥 The Morrissey question and the album's lasting legacy

Whether you're a lifelong Smiths fan, discovering the album for the first time, or just love music discussion and vinyl culture, pull up a chair and join us for another round of Beers & B-Sides.

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