Smith writes punk for intellectualists: the extended, T.S Eliot style poet-pieces 'Birdland' and 'Land' capture the D.I.Y individualism and resistance to conformity of the Ramones or the Clash, but her music is more of a pounding, rollicking rock 'n' roll and her lyrics make her the female Dylan.
Considered the 'godmother' of punk rock, Patti Smith's 1975 release of Horses was a defining point in the punk rock explosion of the 70s. No where near as abrasive as the punk acts that would follow it due to its heavy grounding in rock music, Smith's talent at writing catchy and enjoyable songs is unparalleled. Her vicious undertones give the album another sense of appeal, and it's easy to see how this album influenced an entire generation.
