“Ophelia” by Johnny Marr

As the guitarist for The Smiths, Johnny Marr established a six-string style that continues to influence countless guitarists, even decades after that band’s breakup. His latest solo album, The Age of Everything, continues that legacy. Mind you, I wouldn’t describe any of the album’s ten songs as particularly Smiths-esque, with the possible exception of “How Come,” but the moment you hear those jangly riffs and pristine melodies, there’s absolutely no mistaking them for anyone else’s work.

Case in point, “Ophelia,” one of the album’s initial singles, and one of its more uptempo tracks, thanks to Jack Mitchell’s propulsive drumming and the pulsing electronics. Marr’s riffs sound like they’re carved from silver, and he jumps back and forth between them and the song’s dreamy chorus with an ease that borders on the supernatural. There’s a reason why Marr’s name has become an adjective for guitar-playing, and “Ophelia” is yet more proof of it.

The Age of Everything is currently available via BMG.