The Messenger (Johnny Marr album)

The Messenger is the debut solo album by English musician Johnny Marr, released on February 25, 2013, in the United Kingdom and on February 26, 2013, in the United States. Marr, best known as the guitarist and songwriter for The Smiths, had previously collaborated with various artists and bands since that group's demise but The Messenger marked his first full-fledged solo venture as a frontman.

The album features Marr on vocals, guitar, and harmonica, showcasing a sound that blends elements of post-punk, alternative rock, and jangle-pop. Lyrically, The Messenger explores themes of urban life, personal relationships, and social commentary. The album was recorded primarily at Marr's own studio in Manchester, England.

The album spawned several singles, including "The Messenger," "Upstarts," "Generate! Generate!," and "New Town Velocity." The Messenger received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Marr's songwriting, guitar playing, and vocal performance. Commercially, the album reached the top ten in the UK Albums Chart.