This is one of my all time favourite records, and one of the first and most successful punk rock and reggae crossover records. The Slits paved the way for bands like The Clash, Suicide Bid and many more.
The Slits always aimed to be a feminine and feminist band, they describe thier music as being feminine sounding, with flowing speed and rhythm changes, and a less formal militant structure. Although they have been criticised by feminists for appearing topless on the front cover, this was actually a statement against social conditioning, and global morality, by dressing in a way which was common in some parts of Africa (minus the mud). This hindered the albums commercial success, as most of the music press refused to review it, saying the cover was either offensive or that the girls were ''fat and ugly'', the truth is they looked too much like real women.
The album starts Ari Up singing accapello with the rhythm building up around her voice, with backing vocals competing for space. The music sounds sweet and cheery for instant hit, although the song is about someone who is addicted to heroin and whose health is suffering.
The Second song on the album 'So Tough' has the same theme of reggae, and was written by Ari after speaking with John Lydon about Sid Vicious' dangerous use of heroin. ''Sid hes only curious, John dont take him serious'' this is the strongest song on the album, with the usual driving Dub inspired Rhythm that is one pf thier best.
Other highlights on the album include the fast and punchy 'shoplifting' and the breakup narrative of 'ping pong affair' thier version of Marvin Gaye's 'heard it through the grapevine, exagurrating the powerful bassline and really making it thier own.
I bought this album after hearing about the band through word of mouth, and I was definately not dissapointed, and is my all time favourite album. I encourage you to take notice of The Slits.
