Slade: Alive At Reading '80 EP (1980)

A Live Glam Revival

Slade’s Alive At Reading '80 7-inch vinyl EP, was released in the UK on October 3, 1980, on Cheapskate Records (catalogue: CHEAP 5). This four-track live EP, recorded at the Reading Rock Festival on August 24, 1980, captured the band’s energetic comeback, blending their glam roots with rock 'n' roll covers. Produced by the band, the EP peaked at No. 44 on the UK Singles Chart, revitalizing Slade amid a punk-dominated scene.

Tracklist:

Side A1: When I'm Dancin' I Ain't Fightin' (Holder, Lea, 4:12) – Rating: 8.7

Side A2: Born To Be Wild (Mars Bonfire, 3:35) – Rating: 8.3

Side B1: Somethin' Else (Cochran, 2:25) – Rating: 7.8

Side B2: Pistol Packin' Mama (Bexter, 2:45) – Rating: 8.0

Side B3: Keep A Rollin' (Holder, Hill, Lea, Powell, 3:10) – Rating: 8.2

Release Details:

Label: Cheapskate Records (UK pressing, 45 RPM).

Format: 7-inch vinyl EP, in a picture sleeve with live Reading Festival artwork.

Notes: ℗ 1980 Cheapskate Records. Recorded live at Reading Rock Festival, August 24, 1980. Chart position: No. 44 (UK Singles Chart).

Production and Context

Recorded live at the Reading Rock Festival, the EP was self-produced by Slade (Noddy Holder: vocals/guitar, Dave Hill: guitar, Jim Lea: bass/keyboards, Don Powell: drums), capturing their raw energy and crowd interaction.

“When I'm Dancin' I Ain't Fightin'” is an original from Return to Base (1979), while the B-sides are covers of ‘50s and ‘60s rock classics, showcasing Slade’s rock ‘n’ roll heritage. Released on their own Cheapskate label after major label struggles, the EP marked their resurgence, coinciding with the Slade on 45 compilation and a new deal with RCA. It competed in a post-punk landscape but appealed to their loyal fanbase.