Slade’s B-sides, from the 70s at least, represent a far more interesting band than the one which perfected the terrace-chant million-sellers on their flip. For those who love the eclecticism and versatility on the pre-fame Play It Loud, and the barnstorming power of Slade Alive!, the first dozen or so tracks on this hugely impressive (with caveats) chronological collection are a virtual third album in that sequence (had the band become prog-rock gods instead of stompalong chart-toppers).
From different writing combinations than the hit-making Holder/Lea team, the likes of Gospel According To Rasputin and Man Who Speaks Evil combine Beatles-ish pop savvy with Black Sabbath/Atomic Rooster lyrical themes and musical crunch, not least showcasing Jimmy Lea’s serpentine bass. One Way Hotel and Candidate mine this darkedged Beatles vein brilliantly, while Don’t Blame Me pastiches Beckera Yardbirds – a magpie technique that would see later Bsides refashion templates from Bad Company, NWOBHM and Van Halen. A compelling alternative history, the caveats, however, are these: several of the earlier tracks clearly derive from vinyl (there’s even a skip in My Life Is Natural) so, while the remastering gives punch, it also enhances fuzziness. Secondly, there is spare running time, but a handful of ’79-88 Bsides aren’t included. Why?
