Commencing with the blistering "You're Gonna Need Someone on Your Side", the album represents a clear change in direction for Morrissey from pop to modern rock. It also features some elements of rockabilly.
While the album represents a consistent collection of songs, there was no standout hit single. The first song released from the album, "We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful," peaked at number 17 in the United Kingdom. It also hit numbet two on the US Modern Rock chart. While this was an improvement from the singles from Kill Uncle, it didn't match the success of his earlier singles.
Despite this, a great number of singles were released from the album. The UK saw the release of "You're the One for Me, Fatty" (#19) and "Certain People I Know" (#35). In the United States, "Glamorous Glue" and "Tomorrow" reached #13 and #1 on the Modern Rock chart, respectively.
Tracklisting: