Slates cover

Slates

The Fall · 1981

56 min · 13 tracks · alternative rock · punk

A raw and eclectic fusion of post-punk rhythms and sardonic lyricism capturing the essence of early '80s British underground music.

Why this album works

Best for
wave-like pacing with peaks sardonic tone for critical listeners dynamic exploration of themes
Context
Released in April 1981, 'Slates' came during The Fall's prolific period, following their acclaimed debut album 'Dragnet' (1979) and their second album 'Grotesque (After the Gramme)' (1980). This EP showcases a transitional phase for the band as they began to refine their sound while solidifying their identity amidst an ever-evolving punk scene.
If you like
alternative rock, punk

Slates is an album by The Fall, released in 1981. A raw and eclectic fusion of post-punk rhythms and sardonic lyricism capturing the essence of early '80s British underground music. 'Slates' is significant for its influence on the post-punk movement, with tracks like 'Prole Art Threat' resonating through subsequent generations of alternative rock artists. The EP is noted for its critical acclaim, often mentioned in discussions about The Fall's best work, and it exemplifies the band's raw energy and lyrical wit. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Slates sound like?

A raw and eclectic fusion of post-punk rhythms and sardonic lyricism capturing the essence of early '80s British underground music. Rooted in alternative rock and punk.

What makes Slates by The Fall notable?

'Slates' is significant for its influence on the post-punk movement, with tracks like 'Prole Art Threat' resonating through subsequent generations of alternative rock artists. The EP is noted for its critical acclaim, often mentioned in discussions about The Fall's best work, and it exemplifies the band's raw energy and lyrical wit. Released in April 1981, 'Slates' came during The Fall's prolific period, following their acclaimed debut album 'Dragnet' (1979) and their second album 'Grotesque (After the Gramme)' (1980). This EP showcases a transitional phase for the band as they began to refine their sound while solidifying their identity amidst an ever-evolving punk scene.

Who is Slates for?

Slates works well if you're into wave-like pacing with peaks, sardonic tone for critical listeners and dynamic exploration of themes.

How many songs are on Slates?

Slates has 13 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

Tracklist

13 tracks·56:12

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Middle Mass Standout 3:32
  • 2 An Older Lover etc. 4:36
  • 3 Prole Art Threat Standout 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

Release Date

April 27, 1981

Genre

alternative rock

More albums in alternative rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

56 min 12 sec