Playland

Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr never looked back after his iconic group broke up. He continued to play guitar in a variety of bands and finally surprised everyone when he released his first official solo album: 2013’s critically acclaimed The Messenger. Touring tightened his backing group, and Marr again went into the studio with producer/keyboardist Doviak. Here, Marr and Co. bash out a high-energy set that highlights Marr’s bright guitar work and his underrated songwriting sense. (It wasn’t all Morrissey, folks.) The opening three tracks scream for hit status, while “Candidate” and “This Tension” allow rare glimpses into the group’s tender side.