Slade at ULU

On Friday, glam-rock legends Slade took to the stage at the University of London’s ULU for a nostalgic parade of their greatest hits. Having performed and produced albums almost uninterruptedly since their debut in 1969, the band split in the early 90s, but a new iteration (originally called Slade II) has been undertaking a Merry Christmas Everybody tour every year since.

Opening with 1973’s punk-inflected Take Me Back ’Ome, the newest version of Slade – featuring original members Dave Hill and Don Powell on guitar and drums respectively – set the tone for what proved to be a solid and crowd-pleasing trip through their classic material. Coz I Luv You, from 1973’s Sladest, and Mama Weer All Crazee Now, from their first hit album Slayed?, proved particular highlights. Slade are famed for their live performances, and this night justified their acclaim: audience participation, high-energy delivery and Hill’s practised guitar riffs all made it a night to remember.

But it wasn’t until the encores that fans got what they had really come for. My Oh My, Cum On Feel the Noize, and finally the smash hit Merry Xmas Everybody followed one another in quick succession. Especially for younger fans, the latter proved to be the high point of the night, its wildness matched with an endearing seasonal bonhomie that left everyone smiling. With such enduring success, it seems that Hill and Powell’s ability to reap the rewards of Slade has only just beguuuuun.

Sam Bradley
Photos: Arianna Cavalensi

For further information and future events visit Slade’s website here.

Watch the video for Merry Xmas Everybody here: