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The Smiths were the greatest band of all time. And it's people like you who don't understand that Morrissey is a National Treasure that got him to pack his bags & leave the country that he loves! Morrissey is not only the greatest singer that ever lived but also the greatest Lyricist ever, with only Leonard Cohen being able to come near him. Add to that the fact that they had the greatest Guitarist & tunesmith ever in Johnny Marr then there is no doubt that they were the Greates Band Ever! "Smiths Indeed" Long Live The Smiths.

I would have to agree with you about Marr. And the Modest Mouse album is particularly good. But i'd disagree with you about Morrissey. Lsten to the Lyrics on Vauxhall & I & The under-rated Southpaw Grammar & you will see. Also While Dylan is a great Lyricist i don't think he covered a broad range of subjects & was more interested in word play & witty lyrics. Plus the main part of Springsteens lyrics are basically about Cars & Women. Though in the later years his lyrics have improved greatly. Waters was a genius, but was obsessed with the War, his Father & being abandoned to be classed as one of the true greats. Van the Man is superb i'll give you that, though i would have to say Morrissey is better & why no mention of the bard Leonard Cohen, truely amazing Lyricist & of course there is Tom Waits. His day will come & i will be there laughing because i've known all along!

The Fall........

"Drink The Long Draft Down, Drink The Long Draft Down for The Hip Priest. He Is Not Appreciated" More plaudits for the wonderful Mark E. please!

The Cars And Girls label was Prefab Sprout having a light-hearted go at Springsteen, but there was affection too ("Brucie's thoughts, pretty streamers, guess the world needs its dreamers, may they never wake up."). Springsteen means different things to different people---but those who think Born In The USA is a patriotic anthem should check the words out.

The Smiths were a great band----I didn't appreciate that when they were around, but I did like the fact that whenever they released a single some stuff-shirt Tory would stand up and call for it to be banned.

This country has some great lyricists, some of whom you guys have mentioned while others are less well known. For what it's worth, I'd also say that Paddy McAloon, Roddy Frame, Elvis Costello should be recognised for their words.

The Damned descended into cover versions of classics. Can't see The Clash ever doing that.

I Fought The Law...