Morrissey has stated he has been "gagged" regarding the release of his new album, "Bonfire Of The Teenagers." In a recent interview with The Telegraph, the former frontman of The Smiths voiced frustrations over what he describes as "Idiot Culture" hindering artists from expressing alternative opinions. The album, recorded between 2020 and 2021, remains unreleased as Morrissey confronts barriers he claims are stifling creative freedom.
The titular track of the album, "Bonfire Of Teenagers," addresses the Manchester Arena bombing of May 22, 2017, when a suicide bomber killed 22 individuals and injured many more after an Ariana Grande concert. Morrissey comments on the aftermath in his lyrics, particularly criticizing Oasis' "Don't Look Back in Anger," which he believes has become an anthem of complacency instead of genuine solidarity in the wake of tragedy.
In the interview, Morrissey stated, "The Manchester Arena bombing was our 9/11... to understand the full meaning of the attack is to be guilty," highlighting his disdain for the phrase urging people not to look back in anger, suggesting it feels more like a directive to ignore the past than a message of hope.
The artist also mentioned his turbulent relationship with his former label Capitol Records, with whom he resolved a long-standing dispute earlier this year, regaining rights to his work. He acknowledged the emotional toll this situation has taken on him, describing the album as a profoundly personal project that has been frustratingly shelved.
Miley Cyrus was initially set to contribute to the album but later requested to be excluded due to private conflicts unrelated to Morrissey. Morrissey expressed admiration for her talent and professionalism, despite the eventual fallout. Morrissey currently remains unsigned and continues to assert his views on the current state of the arts in England.
For more details, visit NME's coverage of Morrissey here.