Still Ill [Peel Session]
The Smiths · Hatful Of Hollow [1985]
Is simply taking and not giving
England is mine - it owes me a living
But ask me why, and I'll spit in your eye
Oh, ask me why, and I'll spit in your eye
But we cannot cling to the old dreams anymore
No, we cannot cling to those dreams
Does the body rule the mind
Or does the mind rule the body ?
I dunno...
Under the iron bridge we kissed
And although I ended up with sore lips
It just wasn't like the old days anymore
No, it wasn't like those days
Am I still ill ?
Oh ...
Am I still ill ?
Oh ...
Does the body rule the mind
Or does the mind rule the body ?
I dunno...
Ask me why, and I'll die
Oh, ask me why, and I'll die
And if you must, go to work - tomorrow
Well, if I were you I really wouldn't bother
For there are brighter sides to life
And I should know, because I've seen them
But not very often ...
Under the iron bridge we kissed
And although I ended up with sore lips
It just wasn't like the old days anymore
No, it wasn't like those days
Am I still ill ?
Oh ...
Oh, am I still ill ?
Oh ...
Still Ill [Peel Session]
The Smiths' 'Still Ill' stands as a defining moment in their early discography, capturing the band's signature blend of jangly guitars and melancholic introspection. Originally recorded for a John Peel session, this track showcases the tight interplay between Johnny Marr's intricate guitar work and Morrissey's distinctive vocal delivery. The song's driving rhythm and urgent tone reflect the energy that characterized the group's live performances during the mid-1980s. As part of the Hatful Of Hollow compilation, the recording highlights the band's ability to craft memorable melodies that resonated deeply with audiences. The track remains a testament to the Smiths' enduring influence on alternative rock, demonstrating their capacity to transform personal angst into universally relatable music. Its inclusion in this collection underscores the importance of session recordings in understanding the band's artistic evolution.