He is a wizard on guitar and arrangements. The Smiths just didn't get into electronics as much as New Order and didn't stick around as long to get as creative.

With that said, I'd put up many tracks off of Strangeways as some of their best. "Last Night I dreamt" is fantastic, and to me, very different for them - more orchestral and "big" sounding. The buildup and crescendo of "Death of a disco dancer" to me is very well done.

"Stop me if you think you've heard this one before" is one of my top 3 favorite tracks of theirs. I've always looked at 'Girlfriend in a coma' as more hilarious than depressing. I know that sounds twisted, but I think the whole track is done in jest and very creative (albeit a very dark humor).

Plus, I always felt Morrissey's lyrics were on another level compared to Sumner's, including on Strangeways. While it can be an acquired taste, I think Morrissey's voice is better than Sumner's as well. If nothing else, it is more unique.

I love New Order as well (I know it doesn't sound that way but they are a fantastic band). Peter Hook's signature bass still sounds fresh. I would have been very interested to see where the Smiths would have gone had they stuck together. It is obvious that Marr wanted to continue to evolve into different music (see Electronic). As New Order moved more electronic, I feel their music all started sounding the same as well. It is tough for bands to really change and get that new or creative sound once they are established.