Summary

The Fall’s 1981 album Slates is a classic of post-punk and new wave music. Led by the enigmatic Mark E. Smith, The Fall has been a cult favorite since its inception in 1977. Slates is an ambitious and varied album, combining elements of punk, funk, and jazz to create a unique and captivating sound.

The album features six tracks, including the singles “Middle Mass” and “Slates, Slags, Etc.”. The songs are characterized by Smith’s distinctive vocal delivery and the band’s tight, energetic playing. Highlights include the jazzy “An Older Lover” and the frenetic “Leave the Capitol”.

The album was released to critical acclaim, with many praising its adventurousness and energy.

Slates, the album is a must-have for fans of post-punk and new-wave music. It’s a unique and captivating album that stands the test of time.

About artist

The Fall, a post-punk band from Manchester, England, formed in 1976 and quickly gained a reputation for their unique sound and eclectic, often dark lyrics. Led by frontman Mark E. Smith, the band released its debut album, Slates, in 1981.

Its sound was heavily influenced by punk and new wave music, but its unique style was also shaped by a variety of other genres, including dub, reggae, and psychedelic rock. The band’s sound was often described as “jagged” and “unpredictable,” and Smith’s lyrics were often abstract and surreal.

The Fall had released several singles, including “Frightened,” “City Hobgoblins,” and “Totally Wired.” These singles, along with the band’s live shows, earned them a loyal following in the UK, and their debut album was eagerly anticipated.

Slates was a critical success, and it solidified The Fall’s place in the post-punk movement. The album featured a mix of punk, new wave, and dub elements, and Smith’s lyrics were as abstract and witty as ever. The album spawned several singles, including “Slates, Slags, etc.,” and “Fit and Working Again all of which received airplay on BBC Radio 1.

The Fall’s unique sound and Smith’s enigmatic lyrics would go on to influence generations of artists, from punk and post-punk acts to indie and alternative bands. Slates is a testament to The Fall’s talent and influence, and it remains one of the band’s most beloved albums.

About record

The Fall – Slates, released in 1981, is a classic post-punk album from the British band The Fall. The album is considered a classic of the post-punk genre and is a high point in the band’s discography. It follows the band’s critically acclaimed 1979 album Live at the Witch Trials and is the first album to feature the band’s signature sound of angular guitars, driving rhythms, and frontman Mark E. Smith’s signature vocal delivery.

The Fall – Slates is a dark and brooding album, with Smith’s lyrics focusing on themes of alienation and paranoia. Musically, the album is a departure from the band’s earlier work, with a more aggressive sound and a greater emphasis on rhythm and texture. The album also features some of the band’s most memorable songs, including “Middle Mass”.

The Fall – Slates is an essential album for any fan of post-punk. It’s a classic of the genre, and its influence can still be heard in modern music. Whether you’re a fan of The Fall or a newcomer to the band, The Fall – Slates is an essential part of their discography and a must-have for any vinyl collection.

About lyrics and music

The Fall – Slates is a post-punk album released in 1981, and it is a true classic. The lyrics and music of this record are often cited as the defining moments of The Fall’s career. With a mix of experimental and traditional approaches to post-punk, The Fall – Slates is a unique and captivating listen.

The music matches the mood of the lyrics perfectly, and it creates an atmosphere of dread and unease.

They bounced up and spread the music from their songs, including articulated shouts from vocalist and founder Mark E. Smith (RIP, he died on 24 January 2018).

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Fall – Slates is an essential record for any fan of post-punk and new-wave music. The record is a masterful blend of the band’s classic sound with the new wave influences of the time. It is a perfect example of the band’s artistic evolution, as well as a great example of the genre as a whole. The album is packed with memorable tracks and its artwork is iconic and instantly recognizable. Whether you are a fan of The Fall or just looking for a great post-punk record, The Fall – Slates is an essential album that should be in any music collection.

Similar products

The Fall – Slates is a classic album from British post-punk band The Fall, released in 1981. It is a collection of songs that vary in tempo, style, and genre, making it a unique listening experience. It is a great album to add to any record collection and is sure to please any fan of The Fall or post-punk music.

For those looking to add more The Fall records to their collection, their classic album Hex Enduction Hour (1982) is a great choice. It features the same energy and creativity as Slates and is considered to be one of the best post-punk albums of all time.

Another example of post-punk music is the band Joy Division released their classic album Closer in 1980, which is often compared to The Fall’s Slates. The album features dark and atmospheric songs, with lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and despair.

Other classic post-punk albums include Siouxsie and the Banshees’ Juju (1981), The Cure’s Seventeen Seconds (1980), and Wire’s Pink Flag (1977). All of these albums are great additions to any post-punk fan’s collection and are sure to provide hours of listening pleasure.

For those looking for music that is similar in style to The Fall’s Slates, the band Magazine released their classic album The Correct Use of Soap in 1980. It features the same angular guitar riffs and off-kilter rhythms as The Fall but with a more polished production.

In conclusion, The Fall’s Slates is a classic post-punk album and is a great addition to any record collection. For those looking for more post-punk music, there are many great albums from the same era that are sure to please.

About tracklist

Side one: 1 Obj., Middle mass, An older lover, etc., Prole art threat
Side two: 2 Subj., Fit and working again; States, slags, etc., Leave the Capital.