Interesting concept DLS.
May i start by looking at your 'underrated'?
The bands you list were anything but 'underrated' in their respective eras. All big bands and all critically acclaimed at the time. Slade, for example, were F***ing massive; they owned the U.K. charts in the '70's. Slade had 17 top 20 hits in 5 years (1971 - 1976) which included 6 No.1s, 3 No.2s and 2 No.3s. Three of their singles entered the charts at No.1 and they sold more singles than any other group (in the 70's). I appreciate how difficult this (underrated) aspect of the topic can be because we tend to measure one band against another.
Anyhow i digress, so back on topic; in my opinion:-
Underrated: The Meat Puppets - don't know what to tell you: they're the best band you don't know if you haven't heard Nirvana unplugged and the best band you didn't realise you knew, if you have....
Their earlier music is a tad mental and influenced Nirvana heavily. The Meat Puppets have a huge and versatile back catalog (12 albums) but the chances are you haven't heard of them at all. Ergo - underrated.
Overrated:Oasis - What can i say? Eight albums, five of which are ordinary and repetitive. Their lyrics are poor and they rely heavily on a fan base who don't listen to much else. Their fans deserve better but won't demand it 'cause "reason is treason". ...... The Emperor's new clothes, methinks.
* Lights blue touch paper and steps back.
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