How Soon Is Now? / Well I Wonder

by The Smiths

Type: Single
Released: 28 January 1985
Label: Rough Trade
Country: United Kingdom
Length: 14:09
Community rating: 4.64/5 from 6 ratings

Artists on this release: John Porter, Andy Rourke, Johnny Marr, Mike Joyce

Album Notes & Community Reviews

Driven by Johnny Marr's heavily tremolo-effected, hypnotic guitar riff, 'How Soon Is Now?' abandoned the band's traditional jangle-pop template in favor of an expansive, danceable groove. Morrissey's lyrics articulate crippling social anxiety and the desperate yearning for connection in the sterile environment of a nightclub. The track became an alternative rock monolith, heavily influential on the burgeoning shoegaze and baggy scenes.

Genres

Descriptors: atmospheric, alienation, jangly, moody, detached

Tracklist

Credits

Andy Rourke - bass guitar, cello
Mike Joyce - drums
Johnny Marr - guitar, harmonium, music by, written-by
Sean Barrett - other [cover star]
Morrissey - sleeve, voice, words by, written-by