Slates
The Fall · 1981
56 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock
Raw, frenetic post-punk energy collides with sardonic lyrics and chaotic instrumentation, embodying the spirit of early 80s alternative rock.
Top tracks — play these first
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Prole Art Threat — This track encapsulates The Fall's critique of consumer culture with its driving rhythm and sharp lyrics, making it a cornerstone of their punk ethos.
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Hip Priest (Peel session) — With its sprawling length and intense atmosphere, this version highlights the band's ability to blend tension with melodic elements, illustrating their unique sonic landscape.
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An Older Lover etc. — This track showcases Mark E. Smith's distinctive narrative style, weaving together poignant storytelling with a catchy yet abrasive musical backdrop.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's raw energy and experimental structure mark it as a significant entry in post-punk, though its cohesion is affected by bonus tracks.
What we noticed
- The first five tracks maintain a consistent raw energy, with driving rhythms and repetitive motifs that create a sense of urgency.
- Several tracks feature abrupt transitions and unconventional song structures, often shifting dynamics mid-song.
- The inclusion of multiple Peel session tracks at the end introduces variations in arrangement and performance style, contrasting with the earlier studio recordings.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with peaks
- sardonic tone for critical listeners
- dynamic exploration of themes
- engaging for eclectic tastes
- two-halves listening experience
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward song structures
- seek instant gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on April 27, 1981, Slates is positioned as a pivotal EP in The Fall's discography, coming shortly after their breakthrough album Grotesque (After the Gramme). At this point, the band was cementing their reputation for challenging musical norms while continuing to evolve their sound under frontman Mark E. Smith's uncompromising vision.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Wire· Gang of Four· The Birthday Party
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Leave the Capitol
The narrative shifts from personal reflection to a broader social commentary on political disillusionment.
The transition in focus offers a stark contrast that deepens the song's critique of authority while maintaining an intimate tone.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Middle Mass 3:32
- 2 An Older Lover etc. 4:36
- 3 Prole Art Threat 1:57
- 4 Fit and Working Again 2:59
- 5 Slates, Slags etc. 6:34
- 6 Leave the Capitol 4:07
- 7 Middle Mass (Peel session) 3:56
- 8 Lie Dream of a Casino Soul (Peel session) 2:46
- 9 Hip Priest (Peel session) 9:26
- 10 C‘n’C‐Hassle Schmuck (Peel session) 4:13
- 11 Lie Dream of a Casino Soul 3:12
- 12 Fantastic Life 5:25
- 13 Medical Acceptance Gate 3:24
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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