Irish Blood, English Heart [US CD] [Single] by Morrissey (CD, May-2004, Attack Records (Sanctuary))

"Irish Blood, English Heart" was Morrissey's comeback single. After not releasing an album since 1997, this single was the first sample of his return to the world of music. And more than that, it was different than anything he'd release before.

The lead track is one of the most riveting, powerful tracks Morrissey ever released. From the hushed verses to the overpowering, guitar laced choruses, the track is a tour-de-force. An excellent example of what can be accomplished with the (less than) three minute single, the track combines political invective with one of the most rock-based musical arrangements of Morrissey's career. It rightfully became his biggest hit in the UK, reaching #3, and returned him to the US Modern Rock Tracks chart for the first time since 1994, where it hit #36.

Additionally, the track is backed by three worthy B-Sides. "It's Hard to Walk Tall When You're Small" is another rock-based track with a catchy melody. But "Munich Air Disaster 1958" is what steals the show. Taking inspiration, in a typical Morrissey fashion, from the plane crash which killed most of Manchester United football club nearly half a century ago, the track is poignant and beautify. "The Never-Played Symphonies", another string-laden track is another delicate piece and a fan favourite.

This release is one of the best, most comprehensive of Morrissey's singles.