by The Clash
Released April 8, 1977 via CBS Records
Reviewed April 7, 2022
Top tracks (based on community voting)
I'm So Bored With the U.S.A. (43%), Police & Thieves (43%), White Riot (40%)
If punk is to be rooted in youthful energy and discontent, it’s no surprise as to why The Clash’s 1977 debut positioned them at the forefront of Britain’s emerging punk movement. The band’s sound is expectedly raw, as it is fast. But even as The Clash exhibit a pure punk spirit with their energy, they occasionally flirt with the sounds of rockabilly and reggae—just two of the many genres they would incorporate throughout their career. And as the songwriting duo of Joe Strummer and Mick Jones work in tandem, the band’s self-titled effort is a statement wholly linked to the band’s identity. Political in both the nature and ideologies on display, The Clash focuses on the numerous issues affecting Britain at the time: Racial and class divides, oppressive legislation, and a general sense of dreariness surrounding the future being built for the UK’s youth. The debut record from The Clash may not be their most advanced work, but its impact touches on nearly all corners of punk, even up to today. – Dominick (8.8/10)
London in the 70s was a place of sophisticated upheaval; that movement spread across the Atlantic, meeting four young visionaries, who patrolled under the banner of ‘The Clash.’ Rough around the edges and rich in raw etiquette, their self-titled debut displays a band in their technical infancy; rudimentary to a degree. Despite that, The Clash also showcases young and vibrant souls still years ahead of their age. No longer were extended cuts and flashy concepts necessary. Simple sophistication: Three chords and an attitude, and watch them go. Sometimes the best way to push forwards is to take a step or two backwards. Zoom out and see the bigger picture, while returning to the basics offers up a clean slate. Simplicity is often the most difficult thing to get right, yet The Clash hit the proverbial nail on the head. – Peter (8/10)
Jared: 9/10 | Dominick: 8.8/10 | Hadley: 8.5/10 | Cam: 8/10 | Peter: 8/10 | DeVán: 7.5/10
