Every now and then life throws you a curve ball and you need to retreat and lick your wounds a little while. That’s when uplifting tunes from the likes of The Slates hit the spot.

The song Come Out & Play is about those times where you are totally just zoned in on the moment, when you are with loved ones and things are carefree and special. Fuk the detail, it’s all about mates and shared memory making experience. Come Out & Play is all about celebrating what you can, when you can, and keeping those moments in a bottle, to sustain you for less exhilarating times.

From the first time I caught The Slates, I thought this band really have the potential to do and be something special; one of those bands that could be ‘your’ band and one you smile with the memories as time passes on. The Slates are totally authentic and honest about who and what they are – the voice of a generation. Although I say it myself, I’m quite a good judge of this kind of stuff.

The Slates lads live are also a totally boisterous ‘in the moment’ experience; a live gig in their company is indeed all about forgetting your troubles and breathing in and absorbing the moment.

These days the Slates lads have quite the roster of bangers to choose for a set list, and it’s great to see that promoters This Feeling have faith in these boys.

Likewise, I see the song has been backed by some big names – Embrase drummer Mike Heaton on production, and James Kenosha mixed and mastered. I love the work James has done with one of my favourite vocalists Rhodes, so The Slates chose very wisely.

While Mirfield (and Hecky – if you know you know) have lost some talented sons, the Manchester move for the band can only be a positive.

The Slates have proved they don’t need to be in awe of the prodigious talent already in that fair city; they can blast most of them off the stage. Louis’ vocals are amongst the best in this genre, Joe’s guitar is top notch, and the energy of Jude and Zak on the meaty beats and rhythm are plain to hear.

There are more gigging options for the lads in and around Manny. I’m just gutted the train service to the city has declined to the extent it has.

Musically, The Slates have a real nod to that late 90’s classic Brit sound, without stepping over the ‘retread’ line that too many cross.

The Slates music is both relatable but fresh too. There are fewer of us ‘white beards’ in the crowd, and live the Slates are more about young energy out for a shared good time. As it should be.

Come Out & Play? Hang on, let me just get me boots on…. I’m there and on it. I’ll just be towards the edge enjoying the moment.

* words by Tiggerligger

* images from the band’s socials.