Search - Clash :: The Clash (U.S. Version)

Punk classic and more

John Alapick | Wilkes-Barre, PA United States | 06/24/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Clash's self-titled debut is considered one of punk rock's greatest albums. This is a true statement as some of the genre's best songs are found here. No band in the genre would attack social injustices as intelligently as the Clash. "White Riot", "London's Burning", "I'm So Bored with the U.S.A.", and "Career Opportunities" are punk classics as the band plays them with passion that borders on joy. This was not an act. They believed in their music and lyrics. The lesser known tunes like "Janie Jones", "Hate & War", and "What's My Name" are played with the same vigor and are nearly as good. Found amongst the fury are more traditional rock songs like "Jail Guitar Doors" and "Remote Control" as well as the quasi-reggae of "(White Man) in Hammersmith Palais" and "Police and Thieves", all of which continue their strong lyrical statements. As with their future albums, Joe Strummer sings the majority of the lyrics and the angry songs while Mick Jones usually sings the more "commercial" stuff. The Clash is a classic of the genre and along with their third album, London Calling, is a must have. Highly recommended."