The funniest album of all time

MUSIC VIDEOS

The Queen Is Dead: The Smiths’ Savage Attack on the Monarchy Explained

Poetic Wax | February 11, 2026

The Smiths’ explosive title track “The Queen Is Dead” traces its origins from an impromptu live ad-lib in 1985 to a ferocious six-minute studio masterpiece that opens their 1986 landmark album. Beginning with a subversive sample of a nostalgic World War I music-hall tune smashed by howling feedback and thunderous […]

MUSIC VIDEOS

Frankly, Mr. Shankly: Why The Smiths’ Funniest Song Is So Brilliant

Poetic Wax | February 3, 2026

“Frankly, Mr. Shankly” is arguably The Smiths’ funniest song, not just on their 1986 masterpiece The Queen is Dead, but in their entire catalog. While the band is renowned for their sharp melancholy and poetic despair, this breezy, music-hall-inspired gem bursts through with pure cheeky comedy: a hilariously passive-aggressive resignation […]