Which alternative rock band released the 1986 album The Queen Is Dead?

The Smiths released the 1986 album The Queen Is Dead. It was the English band’s third studio album and became one of their most acclaimed records.

The album was recorded mainly in England during 1985 and 1986, with production by Morrissey, Johnny Marr, and producer Stephen Street. Its songs combine Marr’s bright, intricate guitar work with Morrissey’s distinctive, often literary lyrics.

The title track, “The Queen Is Dead,” is one of the album’s best-known songs, while “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” became one of The Smiths’ most enduring fan favorites. The album reached number two on the UK Albums Chart.

The Smiths broke up in 1987, but The Queen Is Dead continued to influence indie and alternative rock. It is sometimes confused with The Smiths’ debut album, which was simply titled The Smiths and appeared in 1984.