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Glam Slam: Slade vs. Struts

 


THEN AND NOW ROCK 'N ROLL SHOWDOWN: SLADE VS THE STRUTS

When glam rock first exploded onto the scene in the early ‘70s, Slade was one of its loudest, proudest, and most unforgettable torchbearers. Platform boots, outrageous fashion, and anthems that made crowds go wild — Slade embodied everything raw and rebellious about the glam era. Fast forward to today, and The Struts have picked up the glitter-drenched baton with a modern flair, delivering arena-sized bangers, theatrical swagger, and a defiant love for old-school rock showmanship.

This showdown isn’t just a comparison — it’s a celebration of how glam rock never died. It just changed costumes.


SLADE: THE ORIGINAL STOMP-KINGS

Emerging from Wolverhampton in the late '60s, Slade broke into the big time with a sound that was raucous, gritty, and totally British. Their knack for catchy hooks, mis-spelled titles, and sing-along choruses gave them a string of massive UK hits. But beyond the big singles, Slade's B-sides often showed a more experimental or raw edge that diehard fans cherished.

Essential Track:

“Cum On Feel the Noize” – A glam rock call-to-arms. You can practically hear the beer spilling and boots stomping.

Underrated B-side Gem:

“Candidate” (B-side to “How Does It Feel”) – Slower, darker, and more lyrically introspective than their usual fare. A glimpse into Slade’s range that often went unnoticed behind their party anthems.


THE STRUTS: KEEPING THE SHOW ALIVE

Formed in Derby, England, The Struts blasted into the 2010s like a time-traveling glam machine. With Luke Spiller’s flamboyant stage presence and a sound that’s equal parts Queen, The Rolling Stones, and yes — Slade — they’ve earned their place as modern glam royalty. But they’re not just a throwback band. They know how to make rock feel fresh, sexy, and wildly alive in the Spotify era.

Essential Track:

“Could Have Been Me” – A no-regrets anthem that screams with swagger and youth. It’s got the same urgency Slade once delivered to 70s teens looking to rebel.

B-side Deep Cut:

“Ashes (Part 2)” – This hauntingly beautiful track from their Young & Dangerous era feels like a curtain-close ballad after the chaos. It shows the band’s depth beyond the showbiz glitz.


THE VERDICT: SHOWMANSHIP NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE

While Slade ignited the glam rock movement with their loud, proud, and rebellious spirit, The Struts have revived it for a new generation — and they’ve done so without losing the fun, the flair, or the defiance. Whether it’s Slade’s gritty Midlands growl or The Struts’ polished glam punch, both bands remind us that rock 'n roll was meant to be seen and heard.

So throw on your sparkliest jacket, crank up the volume, and stomp along — from Wolverhampton to Derby, the glam train rolls on.


Playlist Bonus:

Listen on Spotify 

Listen on YouTube 

“Cum On Feel the Noize” – Slade

“Candidate” – Slade (B-side)

“Could Have Been Me” – The Struts

“Ashes (Part 2)” – The Struts (B-side)

Join us again on Friday when we test your B-side brilliance. May Rock Quiz is coming. How deep is your rock? Look me up on social for regular updates and sneak peeks into rock’s untold stories and hidden gems. 

Check out the home page for details on how to get your copies of The Rock Atlas. Volume 4 is out now.


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