The Slider is the seventh studio album by English rock band T. Rex, released on 21 July 1972 by record labels EMI and Reprise. It was produced by the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, Marc Bolan, who also designed the cover. This album became the band's most successful in the UK, peaking at No. 4 and spawning two top 10 singles, "Telegram Sam" and "Metal Guru".
The album features a cosmic and psychedelic sound that is tied up with Bolan's mystical and esoteric lyrics, reflecting Bolan's interest in magic, space, and the cosmos. The album's style is considered glam rock and is characterized by its heavy guitar sound, catchy melodies, and Bolan's distinctive vocal style.
The Slider was critically acclaimed upon its release and continues to be regarded as a classic album in the T. Rex discography. Its influence can be heard in many subsequent rock artists and bands. Despite this, at the time of its release, it was a commercial disappointment in the US, though it gained a cult following in subsequent years.
Notable songs from the album include the title track "The Slider", "Ballrooms of Mars", "Rabbit Fighter" and the aforementioned singles. The album, which perfectly captured the tone of glam rock that was dominant in the UK at the time, solidified T. Rex's status as one of the most popular bands of the period.
