Name: Slates LP
Brand: The Fall

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

SV 114-1

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Colour

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music US

Limited edition

Release date

2021-11-26

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier US

Revol­ver

Tax rate US

Sales:8.875

UPC / Barcode

857661008070

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Total Cap

1 / Extended format: No / LP / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No

Artist

The Fall

Genre US

Label US

Superior Viaduct

The Fall was a British post-punk band formed in 1976. Led by the enigmatic Mark E. Smith, they were known for their unique sound and uncompromising approach to music. With over 30 studio albums and numerous lineup changes, The Fall remained influential throughout their career.
Combining elements of punk, rock, and experimental music, The Fall created a distinct sonic landscape that defied categorization. Their lyrics often touched on themes of social commentary and existentialism, delivered with Smith's distinctive snarling vocals.
Despite their underground status, The Fall garnered a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Their impact can still be felt in the alternative music scene today. Explore their discography to discover the raw energy and artistic vision that made The Fall one of the most revered bands of their time.

New Wave / Post Punk

If The Fall truly is a cult band, then Slates both benefits from and reinforces such shrouded obsessions. In presenting these six particular songs as a 10-inch EP, the inherent and attractive difficulty of The Fall's sound is made physical, framing the urgency of their singles from this period (notably How I Wrote 'Elastic Man' and Lie Dream of a Casino Soul) alongside lengthy rumblings normally restricted to long players. 

The tumbling and phased "Middle Mass" begins on an incredible high note, segueing into the snake-charm hypnotism of "An Older Lover Etc." "Slates, Slags, Etc." is built on stretched VU-inspired riffing, complete with ace feedback bleed that doubtlessly went on long after fade-out. Ultimately, it's the piercing chimes of guitar and marching drum grind of "Prole Art Threat" that elevates Slates beyond oddity. Truly one of Mark E. Smith's finest, busiest and most enigmatic performances, equally matched by a band at the peak of their powers. 

LP edition compiles the six tracks from the original EP release, their March 1981 Peel session and an early '80s studio outtake. Liner notes by Brian Turner.

Slates LP

Music US