The Smiths’ Johnny Marr To Release Debut Solo Record

Despite Johnny Marr's illustrious career as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of contemporary music, the former guitarist for The Smiths will be dropping his first ever solo album in February of next year.

Titled The Messenger, the 12-song debut release was written and produced by himself, recorded in Manchester and Berlin, and mastered at Abbey Road by Frank Antwright. The collection brings his signature guitar and vocals into the fore while experimenting on the sound described as a collaboration of angular art rock and rock'n'roll.

On top of his well-known creative partnership with Morrissey behind The Smiths, Marr has also enjoyed the last 20 years working with other music legends such as Talking Heads, Pet Shop Boys and The The to name a few. Additionally, he was a member of Modest Mouse for their 2007 release We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank, before taking to The Cribs for the popular Ignore The Ignorant in 2009.

The Messenger will be released 26 February through Sire/ADA.