The Smiths are said to be on the verge of reforming after Morrissey and Johnny Marr settled their past differences.

The band, who split in 1987, would likely embark on a series of live shows in 2009.

A music industry source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "The very fact that they are talking again is the most hopeful thing in years.

"A lot of people think of them as the best thing since The Beatles. They'd fill stadiums many times over."

In October, similar claims suggest the group were in talks to headline next April's Coachella Festival in California.

A reformation of the band's original line up would mark the first time Morrissey, Marr, Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce have performed together since 1987.

(by Jason Gregory)