Johnny Marr ::: Gothic Theatre ::: 05.16.19

Johnny Marr is a guitar treasure and oftentimes not treated as such.

The Smiths would have never gained their level of fame without the axing skills of a young Johnny Marr. It’s easy to dismiss his work since The Smiths are synonymous with Steven Patrick Morrissey.

Fans received a treat Thursday night with an evening that delved into the iconic career catalog of a guitarist that has more than half left on the gas gauge. For an artist that isn’t used to being front and center, Marr stepped in like a true veteran and owned the Gothic Theatre stage with exuberant confidence.

What’s curious is the selection in Electronic tracks performed Thursday evening. Why not play any selections from his time with Bryan Ferry, the Pretenders or Modest Mouse. I always felt like Electronic could and should make more music.

The healthy mix of Smiths hits with solo cuts played well with the extensive setlist that culminated to the unmistakable “How Soon is Now.”

JM is supporting his 2018 album, “Call the Comet,” a formidable release that deserves a rightful spot in the listening rotation for even casual fans of his solo work.

Johnny Marr Gothic Theatre 05.16.19 Setlist

1. The Tracers
2. Bigmouth Strikes Again(The Smiths song)
3. Armatopia
4. Day In Day Out
5. New Dominions
6. Hi Hello
7. The Headmaster Ritual(The Smiths song)
8. Walk Into the Sea
9. Getting Away With It(Electronic song)
10. Hey AngelPlay Video
11. Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me(The Smiths song)
12. Spiral CitiesPlay
13. Get the Message(Electronic song)
14. Easy Money
15. Boys Get Straight
16. How Soon Is Now?(The Smiths song)

1. Encore:
2. Rise
3. I Feel You(Depeche Mode cover)
4. There Is a Light That Never Goes Out(The Smiths song)
5. You Just Haven’t Earned It Yet, Baby(The Smiths song)