“All by his lonesome self, The Smiths’ founder might be expected to dig into his well-documented obsessions and really wallow. Surprisingly, the wailing soul’s solo debut is a tight, fairly disciplined affair. Viva Hate reveals the talents of its maker: innocent vocal hooks and vivid guitar riffs belie twisted lyrics full of the usual bizarre […]”
“Morrissey's fascinating 1988 solo debut is the perfect subject for a deluxe reissue package, but Morrissey being Morrissey, that isn't what we got.”
