Sorry, know this post is a year too late but just writing to agree with mattp, citid's explanation is way too simple minded. Personally believe most of Stone Roses's HEAVY use of religious imagery was just for effect, certainly on John's part but Ian has always declared himself (in his own way) a believer. There is an interview in NME where the journo asks him why there is so much religion in there and he just holds up the crucifix he is wearing and says 'why do you think i wear this? i'm a believer man'. Just not true to say roses rejected any religion but hard drugs.
Sorry, know this post is a year too late but just writing to agree with mattp, citid's explanation is way too simple minded. Personally believe most of Stone Roses's HEAVY use of religious imagery was just for effect, certainly on John's part but Ian has always declared himself (in his own way) a believer. There is an interview in NME where the journo asks him why there is so much religion in there and he just holds up the crucifix he is wearing and says 'why do you think i wear this? i'm a believer man'. Just not true to say roses rejected any religion but hard drugs.