The Smiths Album: “Rank”

I am on of the biggest Smiths fans there is. And yes, you must get this if you are a fan. But, you can't help but wonder why (especially on cd) why Morrissey (apparently, he decided what songs were to go on this album) skipped out on many great tracks that the Smiths played on this night.

Songs like: "Frankly, Mr. Shankly" , "There is a light that never goes out", "I want the one I can't have", "How soon is now?" and others were sadly omitted. The overall sound is very good but you can't help but feel like your being swindled here. I hope "they" decide to release another live album to make up for "Rank".

Hard to believe it's been 20 years since the release of this album, which came out after the band disbanded and just before Morrissey ventured out on his own.

This is not a "must have" but showcases some of the Smiths' best work (albeit mostly from The Queen is Dead).

Recording quality is average.

the smiths only official live album 'rank' is a treasure among live albums.. morrissey's charismatic stage presence and vocal talent obviously seem to steal the show.. but this is a great band effort with some great guitar playing by johnny marr... the song selection covered all their albums up to that time and featured their current single 'ask'.. There is a great excitement to this album.. the band sounds fresh and daring.. it is a shame that they would break up so soon.. but that is the way it goes.. morrissey would go on to what is still proving to be a great solo career..

This album was my introduction to The Smiths, and when I finally heard the original recordings I never felt the band's studio sound measured up to the raw quality of Rank. There is an intensity that runs throughout. When I first heard it aged 13, this album brought on the most intense feelings of connection to the music. Finally, someone understands me! Boo hoo.

I'm over that now, but whenever I put Rank on it's still blows me away

So great. I agree that The Smiths sound even better live and how many bands, now or then, can say that? Morrissey's voice sounds fantastic and what more can be said of the genius of Marr, Rourke and Joyce? Favorite track is "Rusholme Ruffians" with the "(Marie's The Name of)His Latest Flame" intro. Sublime. I listen to it nearly every day. "What She Said" and "Still Ill" are also amazing. Grab it!