Johnny Marr's Lost Album "Boomslang" Returns with Unreleased Tracks
Twenty years after its initial release, Johnny Marr's "Boomslang" is finally getting its due. The album, originally released in 2003 under the moniker Johnny Marr + The Healers, will be available in its entirety for the first time on September 20th, featuring seven previously unreleased tracks. The first of these, "All Out Attack," has been released today.
"Boomslang" was born out of a unique creative collaboration following the Smiths' disbandment in 1987. Marr, known for his iconic guitar work with the Smiths, went on to work with a diverse range of artists, including the Pretenders, The The, Pet Shop Boys, and Beck. It was through these collaborations that he met the musicians who would become The Healers: drummer Zak Starkey, bassist Alonza Bevan, percussionist Liz Bonney, keyboardist Lee Spencer, and guitarist Adam Gray.
Describing the recording process, Marr stated in a press release: "We holed ourselves up in our own otherworld and experimented with different ways to write, record and think; guitars and percussion all together in a room, and programming with new technology from the electronic scene. Everything was about discovery."
The album's return, two decades later, has allowed Marr to revisit his work and share tracks that were initially left off the original release. He reflects, "Twenty years on, Iâm pleased we created the music and this new release of Boomslang has given me the opportunity to revisit it and present some songs that we werenât able to include the first time around. The Healers was something special that happened to me and Iâm grateful that it did. A special group of people in a special moment in time."
"Boomslang" is a testament to Marr's experimental spirit and his willingness to push boundaries. This re-release not only showcases the talent of The Healers but also allows fans to experience the creative exploration that went into crafting this unique album.
The album features a diverse tracklist, including:
"The Last Ride"
"Caught Up"
"Down On The Corner"
"Need It"
"You Are The Magic"
"InBetweens"
"Another Day"
"Headland"
"Long Gone"
"Something To Shout About"
"Banginâ On"
The seven previously unreleased tracks include:
"The Way That It Was"
"All Out Attack"
"Get Me Wrong"
"Donât Think Twice Itâs All Right" (Bob Dylan cover)
"A Woman Like You"
"You Are The Magic" (Union Mix)
"Get Me Wrong" (Instrumental Version)
"Boomslang" will be available on September 20th via BMG. Pre-order the album here: [link]. This re-release provides an opportunity to rediscover a hidden gem in Johnny Marr's discography and experience the musical journey of Johnny Marr + The Healers.
