More about: Morrissey

No sooner has Morrissey signed to his new label BMG for the release of his new album, Low In High-School, than it seems that the album’s artwork has upset some retailers.

The singer’s childhood friend James Maker has posted a status on Facebook claiming that HMV are refusing to stock the album in the UK on the basis that “the cover art is offensive”.

He wrote: “I publish this in support of a friend, and in the cause of democracy. Trade and Retail* have informed BMG that they will refuse to handle Morrissey's new album, 'Low in High School' on the grounds that the sleeve art is "offensive". Thus, the entire campaign is in jeopardy unless Morrissey and his record company rethink the album cover. x (* The HMV chain refuse to stock it.)”

The child on the cover is said to be Msax Lopez, the son of Morrissey’s bassist Mando Lopez. The long-awaited album will be Morrissey’s first album since World Peace Is None Of Your Business in 2014 and will also be the former Smiths’ frontman’s first album for BMG, which is partnering with the singer on the launch of his new label, Etienne Records.

Low in High-School was recorded at La Fabrique Studios in France and in Rome at Ennio Morricone’s Forum Studios. The record is produced by Joe Chiccarelli, who has previously worked with the late Frank Zappa, The Strokes, Beck and The White Stripes among others.

Korda Marshall (Executive Vice-President of BMG) said of the signing: “There are not many artists around today that can compare to Morrissey. He is an extraordinary talent. He is prodigious, literate, witty, elegant and above all, courageous. His lyrics, humour and melodies have influenced many generations. The music on this new landmark record will speak for itself and we are delighted to welcome him to BMG.”

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More about: Morrissey