An era dominated by synth pop and gloomy post-punk, the smith's eponymous debut was the beginning of a new era. Joh my marr's inventive song writing and ringing guitars were catchy and melodic and were made all the more original by morrissey's vocal style and lyrics. Although The Smiths continued to improve over the course of their career, the songs here are vital and alive, making sure that their debut remains startling and exciting to this day.