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With a new bassist, Andy Rourke, The Smiths began to find their distinct voice. Their second demo was recorded in December 1982 and sent to EMI, who also rejected it. However, through rigorous rehearsals and songwriting, they recorded “Hand in Glove,” which was produced by Geoff Travis' Rough Trade Records—this became their first major release on May 13, 1983. While it did not achieve commercial hit status, it garnered significant acclaim within the alternative rock scene, aided by radio play across North America.