Released on The Smiths' 1986 album The Queen Is Dead, 'Meat Is Murder' stands as a defining track of the Manchester indie scene, blending punk energy with melancholic melody. Written by Morrissey and performed by Johnny Marr, the song explores themes of consumerism and societal decay through its sharp, satirical lyrics. Its driving rhythm and Marr's distinctive guitar work established a template for alternative rock that would influence countless subsequent artists. As a staple of the band's discography, the recording captures the raw, intellectual edge of the mid-1980s, cementing The Smiths' legacy as pioneers of the genre.