Reviews (page 9 of 14)
some good ol classic punk but I cant say I love it
Nah - not today at least
Not for me. 1
The Clash's debut album is good, but suffers alot of issues. First of all, the guitar tone in the many of the songs is awful. Way too much treble and distortion, taking away from what the guitarist is actually playing. And, the majority of the album is flat, with no contrast between songs until the last 3 tracks. The album is fun though. It's catchy, and I can imagine getting drunk and belting the lyrics with a concert of people. Low 3/5.
Easily my favorite of the early punk albums I've been exposed to, and for one simple reason: these guys know how to write songs. Not only that, but there's a wonderful variety across the tracklisting, of tempo, of feel, etc. I still can't give it a 5 because I still struggle to love basic punk music, but this was really great, and I'd call it a must-listen. #56
Objectively one of the best punk albums out there, and an absolute trendsetter, only reason I'm not giving a 5, is simply because I'm not huge on punk.
Little wanky
Seminal Punk Album.
It's the Clash so guaranteed 5, even if I prefer some of the later albums. 'I'm so bored with the USA' pretty much sums up our current era
I like the short to the point songs. Need more listens for the lyrics but the up-beat sound makes this album really enjoyable.
not my thing, half of these songs are on the playlist at work drive me crazy lol
That's not my taste in music - But ok
kicks off maybe the strongest five-album run of rock history
I guess London is burning
Better than good.
I'm nearly inclined to give this 5 stars because it's crazy how influential it was. There are sounds solidified on this album that resonated in punk and punk-adjacent music for 30 years. What I mean by that is, of course we're still hearing these sounds and ideas today but for 30 years after this album came out it was still part of the cutting edge and mainstream sound of punk rock. With the exception of maybe Nirvana, The Clash might be the most important band to debut after 1975. The only reason this album doesn't get 5 stars is because London Calling exists and does everything this album does, but better.
Hell yeah 4/5
The Clash really got it first try with their sound. It’s no London Calling, but it definitely hits all of the notes of angry cockney guys yelling about somewhat incomprehensibly Idk if it holds up against its modern punk descendants and is really the GREATEST punk album of all time, but boy is it fun and catchy. I also think it’s definitely approachable for people who may not be a punk fan.
Was skeptical but I enjoyed this
Classic 80s British rock
Very punk. Actually listenable which was a pleasant surprise
amugy jokis punk de az van h igy egyben szamomra kicsit sok es repetitiv kene bele valami kis zsuzzsss meg:) szoval szamonkent jo de egyben nembirnam sokat hallgatni legjobb szam sztem: whats my name 10/6
Kedvenc/Favourite: London's Burning A brit punk mindig kedves lesz a szívemnek, kiforratlan szerintem (a későbbi Clash-hez képest is), de pont attól jó. Kicsit egybefolynak a trackek, de ebben az overall hangulatban van az album bája. Egyszerűen nagyszerű, pure punk. British punk will always be dear to my heart, it's unrefined in my opinion (even compared to later Clash), but that's what makes it good. The tracks are a bit one note, but in that overall vibe is the charm of the album. It's simply great, pure punk.
Awesome vibes, not as cool as London Calling though. Lovely
Good album! Bit same-y, but that's the clash!
Solid punk record. Quite enjoyable even though I recognized zero songs from this album.
These guys are heralded in the music world, but when I hear them it just isn't exciting for me. It's just standard post-punk rock with heavy British accents singing lyrics. It's fine occasionally.
Strong songwriting and instrumentals. The vocals aren't my favorite style but I still enjoyed it and would go back to a few songs on this record.
yyyyyyy
Very pure punk album from before the Clash started experimenting with other genres and styles. Some very satisfying tracks, stripping back all of the pointlessness of prog and studio rock in the 1970s and criticising the state of Britain. White Riot and London Burning are now classics, but sitting here at the end of 2024 Police and Thieves is the standout, already looking past punk, which was always going to be a self terminating movement. The moments of dub are artfully executed given the otherwise handsoff studio production. Garageland is a great reflection on what was going on with punk (and maybe a shot across the bow of Malcolm McLaren?) Structurally there's a lot more going on than Never Mind the Bollocks or Ramones, it's not surprising that The Clash pushed boundaries for a longer time than either of the other two although ultimately it limits the impact of this album compared to the statement made by Never Mind the Bollocks or the sheer energy of Ramones.
Enjoyable punk rock album 3.5 stars
Клэш и Клэш. Лучшая песня - White Riot.
I didn't love this album when it first came out but it's grown on me over the years. There are some classic songs and great guitar riffs but its hit or miss (like everything the Clash did).
It’s not quite London Calling, but a powerful debut. No bad songs really. Career Opportunities is one of my favorite Clash songs and of course you’ve got Janie Jones, White Riot, Police & Thieves. Still, it wasn’t as interesting as they were capable of. High 4 (again!).
This is the essence of punk. Basic musical skill but a lot of things to say. Angry, political and sarcastic. A brilliant debut from “the only band that matters “.
What a debut! These guys were pissed about England's and rightfully so. They rock hard here ("White Riot" and "London's Burning") while taking on serious issues of class and post-industrialization. The reggae groove in "Police and Thieves" shows that even the beginning this punk band was interested in expanding their sound beyond three chords. Awesome.
Κλασικό punk
Δεν τον μπορώ με τίποτα εκτός από κάνα δυο κομμάτια του σε όλα τα άλμπουμ .
It's a classic!
Great first half with the first 3 tracks being standout songs. The second half feels like it blends into itself, but it's still a good listen. Garageland definitely ends things on a high note. I like later punk and never got super into 70s British punk, but this is solid stuff.
Good old school punk
I guess it is an album to listen to before you die, and perhaps their seminal album but they have better in their catalogue. Fingers crossed for London Calling.
Yeah it’s definitely an early punk rock album. It was a groundbreaking piece of counter-culture at the time. Through modern lens I’d call it mostly a snoozefest, honestly. Musically it’s pretty lazy, but it’s hard to fault a punk rock record for powerchords and simple drum beats. I honestly don’t have a lot to say about this record, I’m a fan of a lot of punk rock bands, but The Clash just ain’t for me. 2*. Could be worse.
Ah. Now I understand where my bad impression of the Clash came from. This is the distillation of everything I don’t like about this kind of punk music - it’s repetitive and boring, whiny and short-sighted. Grow up. 2/10
Perfect classic rock
Yeah this is 5 stars.
It was okay, can see why people really like it, but isn’t for me.
Expert debut with all the charge and verve they would later perfect on London Calling when they added a bit more variety and craft.
Tbf has ned fest glost, aber Isch mer zu 0815 rockig
nicht mein Fall
Forgot how good this album is. I usually just listen to London Calling when I listen to the Clash. Sounds especially good after spending most of my days listening to some of the shit on this list.
actually a good rock album
Maybe not my type of music... I was bored while listening to it... I only liked 3 songs...
Not a fan of the singing style in London's Burning. Otherwise, overall catchy album, good tunes.
One of the best albums I have ever bought. Also the first band I ever went to see so I love every song on this album.
Definitely an origin to the Punk Rock movement. Loved the loose feel of the album and felt that this was a fun listen.
The Clash, yes! I basically love their every song. This may not be well produced, or composed in a very skillful way, but hey, it's punk so it's okay. You can't deny it is a thoughtful and well written album...and I just love the energy and the recklessness. Defo 5/5 because, well, let's just say I really adore them.
Honestly the first Punk record I really vibed with on the list. I had some trouble getting into the other ones but this was completely different. Undeniable talent. My favorites were Remote Control, What's My Name, and Police and Thieves
This rips. I know I really like an album when I am a little over halfway through and have added nearly every song to my playlist. And then they throw a Reggae song in there with Police & Thieves? Just a really fun album.
Overall decent album, good instrumentals dragged down by the jarring and unpleasant vocals.
I think I can feel the lyrics more than they can write themselves, as The Clash tries to be very basic on them in here. Sure, I can feel what the author has in mind, but he wouldn't spell it out for me. The music itself is enjoyable, even though you won't find anything complex here, and yet, there's a bunch of distinctly different songs. It's not the lyrics, it's not the melody that's selling the vibe, but you get it anyways. Wish the album wasn't so simple. It feels like a hesitant 4.
Meh 45/100
aaaaaaaaahhhh 😎 minden pillanata csodálatos
I really like a few songs by The Clash, this album is full of ones I would consider pretty mid.
A fun album and just nonstop energy start to finish. I wouldn’t listen to this sub-genre of rock all the time but it’s a great change of pace.
Punk, with a pinch of reggae.
The Clash
Not completely up to their highest standards, but everyone has to start somewhere. The sound is definitely already there in this debut.
While it doesn't have their biggest hits or polish of the later albums, this is everything a punk album should be. Intelligently aggressive, simple yet melodic, anthemic catchy songs.
1/5
Not quite at the level they would attain in later records, but you can hear the potential here.
You have to be in the mood for this music and I must have been when I listened to this album. The clash is great and are timeless.
Punk albums sound so dated now, but The Clash were always one of the more accomplished punk bands. I particularly liked their cover of "Police & Thieves", which is a good indicator for the direction that lead guitarist Mick Jones would take when he formed Big Audio Dynamite after being sacked.
kind of a banger
Es ist ein Album.
The Clash: "The Only Band That Matters." Are they now, huh? Living in 2024, well past the heyday of The Clash, I'm not 100 on how much I'd agree with that or not — speaking just for my own tastes, anyway. I mean, there are a lot of bands that matter to me, from The Beatles to the one backing up Weird Al. So "the only band?" I probably just had to be there at the time. At any rate, I can agree that they're a pretty damn good band. And, at the very least, a better one than the Sex Pistols. Yeah, it's kind of unavoidable for me to compare The Clash to the Sex Pistols, as it seems to be for a lot of people. They're both 70's British punk bands who ended up being huge sources of inspiration for nearly every one that came out afterwards. Heck, The Clash even opened for the Sex Pistols on a tour, and it was a negative review they got during that that inspired them to write "Garageland". And, like, look, I have my problems with the Sex Pistols: as people, as musicians, and in regards to their formation, politics, and unintentional impact. Even though I like a fair bit of their music, there's a part of me these days that considers them a punk boy band that relied on shock value, between songs like "God Save The Queen" and the fact that they put the word "bollocks" in their album title. I mean, I'm not gonna come out here and say I hate them and their impact just because "Bodies" exists or that it's really their fault the Dead Kennedys had to write "Nazi Punks Fuck Off", but... I'unno. It's just harder for me to enjoy their bashing and thrashing as much as I used to when I was 13 or 14. So then we come to The Clash — one of the bands I've logged away in my head as "really left," alongside Rage Against The Machine and Chumbawamba. And lemme shut this down off the bat: that's not the reason why I like any of those bands. It helps, sure, to be able to nod along to those songs and go "I agree with them," but there's just as many bands and artists I like that I don't. No, of course, it's their musicianship. Rage making kickass rap rock. Chumbawamba mastering their way through punk, dance and folk. And of course, The Clash, doing some of the best punk I've ever heard. Like, besides any nonsense regarding "politics," if there are any strong reasons why I like The Clash over the Sex Pistols, it's that I think The Clash are better musicians — and, at that, more relatable. I mean, The Clash could play "Anarchy In The U.K.", but I don't think the Sex Pistols could play, say, "Police & Thieves". And in regards to their subject matter, honestly, thinking back on it, the Sex Pistols were a little broad? Which was probably the point, but I don't think it hits as well as The Clash writing specifically about being a youth in 1970's London, from the more serious stuff in "White Riot" and "Career Opportunities", to smaller things like "Protex Blue" and "London's Burning". Mixed with Strummer's vocals and Jones's guitar and the slight edge of pop that's in there... Woof, goodness. And I wanna rewind to "Police & Thieves" for a second: the intersection of punk and reggae. For the longest time there, I never got why these two crossed over so often. Why did punk bands do reggae so often? Why did Bob Marley write "Punky Reggae Party"? What **was** the deal? As it turns out, I was thinking too aesthetically, and not thinking about the thematic elements. They have a lot in common, and "Police & Thieves", in that light, fits really well here. I mean, just earlier on the album The Clash were expressing dislike for the police and calling out civil bureaucrats. So a song like this... Yeah, it's perfect. And it helps that The Clash do reggae pretty dang well here. And I've read that they apparently do it **better** on later albums? I'm not gonna say they're on the same level as, say, The Wailers, but still, goodness. Taking it all in total, while the Sex Pistols still probably have **the** punk album of punk albums, The Clash, for sure, have the best. I've never qualms whatsoever about giving it a 5. It's just that good. And I didn't even get around to mentioning the rock n' roll influence. If you've somehow stumbled across this review and haven't heard it yet, well, get yourself on it. LONDON CALLING, too, for that matter, but, y'know, I'll get there when I get there... "The Only Band That Matters?" I'm still not 100, but damn if they don't make a good case for bein' one of the big ones.
Pure UK punk from one of the best musical trios there is. Solid 5 Stars.
I’m at a 5. That’s 35 minutes of really fucking good punk rock, man. I can hear a lot of U.S. new wave inspiration on here, but they turned up the energy and really channeled it in a good way here; there’s not much filler, a lot of fast tempos, and some great lyricism that gets its point across through the really nice grit in Joe Strummer’s vocals. My single complaint is pretty minimal, and entirely subjective: I think Police & Thieves should’ve been the last track on the album. There’s an absolute breakneck speed on those first 11 tracks, most of which are around or under 2 minutes, & they cover such a variety of topics that it keeps the sound fresh on all of those tracks. However, when Police & Thieves comes in, and takes up 6 minutes doing its reggae cover (which is really well done, by the way), it just kind of stops the album’s momentum in a way that I think turns the album downward for me. Not that much, but enough to sort of feel jarring once the next track goes right back to being under 2 minutes. It feels awkward, and I think the album would’ve greatly benefited if it had been the last track. Regardless, what a fun album. Guitar work is on point throughout, the percussion is punchy, the tempo is great, the lyrics have a deserved anger to them & make some pretty decent points (some of which still ring true in 2024), and Joe Strummer’s vocals bring it all together to make this work. I do sort of wish a few tracks were just a little longer, if only because I selfishly think 35 minutes of this soundscape feels criminally short compared to how much I enjoyed it. Pretty easy 5.
Nice, but similar to others
I've always thought it was funny that punk lyrics are basically I won't go to war for some country, or that working long boring jobs sucks and that those are somehow opinions that are counter culture. Anyway this album is awesome, excellent representation of the explosion of punk. It's fast, angry, musically simple and just is straight to the point rock. Pretty fun listening to this after a week of psychadelic and prog rock. My favorite is probably What's My Name, the one song I wish has a tad longer.
Jeg vidste, at jeg godt kunne lide det her album, men jeg havde glemt hvor god. Nok det bedste punkalbum imo, kort og catchy og intens og upoleret
The Clash var et rigtig godt punkband, men de er endnu bedre når de ikke spiller klassisk punk.
Nice album with a pretty solid foundation for the future classics.
Despite loving London Calling, I just never went into the rest of The Clash's discography. Pretty much what I was expecting, though, in a good way.
Classic and untouchable. Perfect album.
Not quite there yet, but gosh darn close
A long way from London Calling greatness, but still pretty good.
I think I prefer the later Clash, when they're starting to incorporate more wide ranging musical influences; not always successfully, but they sound pretty one dimensional here. This is an okay early, shout-y punk album but I want more from life than that I think.
Classic
Really unphenomenal
Hard to believe that a just a few years earlier music sounded completely different. These guys definitely changed the scene…and not really for the better.
This whole album is fantastic. I was a bit too young to fully appreciate this band when they arrived on the scene, but there is no denying the impact that they had on everyone who followed. I love listening to the Clash now and wish I would have been at an age where I could have really appreciated them in their prime. 5/5 for me.
4 estrelas
Great to listen too again after so many years, the music is ok. But the word and the message of the songs don't stand up in today's world. Great band, but had their time
Mehhhhh some decent tunes but a bit shouty for me
Es mucho más básico que London Calling, que me pareció un disco mucho más complejo y avanzado. Este se remite a un punk bien de garage que denota comienzos.
As a rule of thumb I tend to be wary about punk as a genre, but these guys pull it off – and rather spiffingly at that. The Clash's self-titled debut record is definitely weaker than the follow-up London Calling, but that's not saying too much. The latter is a juggernaut album that's pretty difficult to top. Regardless, The Clash really nailed punk here. Fast, energetic rhythm sections underlying simple, catchy guitar riffs and poor vocals. What more could you want? The presence of the track Police & Thieves surprised me. I wasn't expecting The Clash to release such a strong "epic" track, especially when the genre they're typically known for defining is itself known for having incredibly short tracks (downwards of 2 minutes in many cases). And we get our fair share of those, in relative bangers like White Riot, Career Opportunities, and Protex Blue – but then Police & Thieves, a 6-minute bombshell, comes to remind you that not only can punk verses sound decent (not just the choruses), but tracks can get away with being three times their normal length. And to great effect. It's the best track on the album. 4/5 Key tracks: White Riot, Deny, Police & Thieves
I mean it was alright...
Not for me at all.
Better than most punk albums so far, but I don't think I'm going to rush out and buy it. I'm okay sticking with London Calling.
Always great to listen to the Clash. 3.75
11/14/24. No nonsense punk rock right here. In your face and classic.
Credevo fosse un po' più ribelle.
Still one of my favorite albums of all time. All classics. All bangers. All done in only 35 minutes.
Great!!
I mean, come on... it was a 5 star album back in the day and it still is! Great individual tracks, that collectively make for a seminal moment in music, capturing the attitude and energy of the time. You could narrow this list down from 1001 albums to 10 and this would still be there!
The only band that mattered. How can I give this five stars with Give 'em Enough Rope and London Calling on the horizon? But how in hell can I give it less than five when it is so fucking off the hook amazing?
CATCH UP: NOVEMBER 12 Me being sick for a few days caused me to miss out on talking about another Clash album, this time their straight punk rock debut. I'll inevitably have to talk about the Sex Pistols' and Ramones' debuts and compare them to this, but one thing for sure is that the Clash are the critical favorites. Something about this record feels a lot smoother than the latter, not as pugnacious as the former: if you wanted to call this "pop punk" I wouldn't contest it. However what it lacks in breakneck aggression it makes up for in tight and effective songwriting, which ended up being the band's strength all along. I'd call it closer to the street punk I find myself being really into when I end up in a classic punk mood (thanks to it being what most of those street punk bands were trying to emulate in the first place). Thanks to this book for finally getting me to check it out! 7/10
Still sounds genuinely exciting. Garageland is a self-aware statement of intent and this is the closest The Clash came to a straightforward pub-rock album, but there are still signs of greater ambition throughout. Tight harmonies, tighter rhythms, and the first shoots of the reggae influence that made them extra special. It's probably the purest expression of the punk energy the band had and might be their best record in that sense. It lacks the sprawling ambition of later efforts but who says that's a bad thing? 14 songs, 35 minutes, barely a couple of duffers on there. It's like an early Beatles album or something: pure pop sensibility but cranked up to 11 with frustration and boredom. And it's hard to think of a stronger opening to many records than the 4 song run from Janie Jones to White Riot. Brilliant
3/5 London Calling is better. This is a bit rough around the edges.
Loved hearing this album because you could see how other bands were influenced by them.
punk rock
classic punk
Day308 - a great album from the only band that matters
i like this one; lots of intresting tracks and full of energy. Good musicianship at times trying to hide under the "punk" banner. The vocalist does annoy me sometimes when it feels like he is trying to put a voice on. Overall a really interesting and good album
I enjoy The Clash. Melodic, rhythmic punk…not some noise with screaming. I was not familiar with this album or these songs. Despite that, I did enjoy it. Good stuff.
Not the best of the bunch
A classic. Hard edged. Rockin stuff.
A self titled delight to a power house of the genre.
This is the English punk album by definition. Political, direct, raw, and timeless. All killer, no filler. Great record!
A great start to who would become one of Punk's most iconic bands. Doesn't quite capture the best of their sounds though, they needed to start here to get there
Yeah this a damn fine album innit. So much energy, still sounds fresh almost 50 years later.
Awesome stuff
One of my all time fav albums, lively energetic and in yer face. All the tunes are classics on this and of of course the best year of all time.
Genesis of the greatness that was coming.
Good solid classic punk. I don't think I'd listened to garage land before.
What a day to have The Clash... I'm So Bored with the USA too!
Truly, I was ready for this to be an amazing piece of work, which launched a whole genre. It fell far short of that. Maybe my expectations were just too high, but I really didn't like it.
Every single bit of Clash is 5 stars for me.
This is The Ramones but more poppy and listenable.
Pretty good straight forward punk album. I liked Police & Thieves and how it foreshadowed their more reggae infused music they would create in their later albums. Besides a few songs, this album wasn't super memorable, but I still enjoyed it while I was listening. Low 4.
#394. I just don't get what people see in The Clash. It's alternately annoying or boring. 2/5: tiresome Song added to playlist: White Riot I've created a playlist on Spotify that consists of the best and/or my favorite song from each of the albums in this book. This list can be found here if you are interested: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7MAXDGLWlwLkFLb8veGfkA?si=FqkQQPgZTFWG0jAUJXLFZA&utm_source=copy-link
Disco esencial de la explosión del 77, uno de los años clave en la historia de la música, junto con los de: David Bowie- Low, Sex Pistols, Talking Heads, Ramones, The Clash, Television, Wire, Suicide, Bob Marley, Iggy Pop, The Jam, Suicide, Mink Deville, Kraftwerk, Iggy Pop, The Modern Lovers, Elvis costello... también Muddy Waters, Peter Gabriel, Dennis Wilson, Fleetwood Mac, ELO, y Bee Gees...). Desde la rabia de Janie Jones y White Riot , hasta el reggae-punk de Police and Thieves o London´s burning, este disco conforma uno de los mejores debuts del rock.
Maybe more impressive in its day, but not bad
London Calling is their 5 star album but some good tracks on here too like Police and Thieves
Never mind the Sex Pistols, if you could pick only one album to be your introduction to punk rock it has to be this one.
Not as good as London Calling, just decent.
朋克摇滚，一种流行的吵（？）
An ethos can be hard to define sometimes, especially when there's multiple different ways to interpret it. Punk is no exception. The Clash's debut album shows that it was more of a political and artistic statement than an attitude. Sure, the album was recorded quickly and lacks overdubs, but the band members clearly care about sounding as good as possible. And, most importantly, they come out of the gate with a lot to say, and an unwillingness to pull their punches. That being said, it's a debut album. It punches above its weight, but the album lacks the general scope, precision or ambition of later Clash albums. It's still eclectic, but less so. Still, an amazingly solid start. Tangent: I much prefer the UK version to the US one. But that tends to be how it is; the only time I've encountered a US version of an album that was better than the UK release was Magical Mystery Tour. Fave: Police & Thieves Least Fave: Deny Strong Bad Demerit Count: 0
Rock solid punk.
I'm glad that this album exists, but I'm not expecting to be listening to it again.
Not bad, but nothing I feel particularly blown away by. But I'm not a big fan of punk to begin with, so that fact that I found this inoffensive means it's probably pretty good to a more neutral listener. Concise without being grating or shrieky. Top tracks: Janie Jones, London's Burning
Sonido muy característico de The Clash pero ninguna canción se destaca realmente.
Punk at its finest.
Wild. Did not expect to be impressed. I thought it was just another in a long line of punk bands. The themes weren't overwhelming, and I can see why this is a core punk album. The reggae inspired track "Police & Thieves" was unexpectedly decent. "Career Opportunities" and "Garageland" were my favorite tracks.
I was late to the Clash party. I did hear Big Audio Dynamite and thought it was a steaming pile of shit so didn't look back to where it came from. I know this is peak music for some but I'm just not in love with it. Good not great. But a lot better than B.A.D.
classic
It’s great but not their greatest
Ok
It's good fun, it's punk, it's The Clash. Fave: Janie Jones
The Clash being more interesting than most of the genre right out of the gate - it's good stuff! I still prefer Strummer's solo stuff, but it's great to see where he came from. I might need to check out the UK version of this album - seems it has some tracks not on the US version I find myself with. Fave tracks - I mean, the covers "I Fought The Law" and "Police & Thieves" are probably the stand outs, here, but let's pick "Clash City Rockers" and "White Riot" for the originals!
++: Janie Jones, Remote Control, White Riot, What's My Name, Deny, London's Burning, Career Opportunities, Cheat, Protex Blue, Police & Thieves, 48 Hours, Garageland +: I'm So Bored with the USA, Hate and War 9,5/10
Can you believe I've always claimed to love The Clash never listened to this in full? Such a poser. It's really good but I still have more of a taste for Sandinista! and Combat Rock, I guess I just love weirdo post-punk Clash best. But this is still pretty good. The bass lines are killer too. White Riot and Hate & War and What's My Name back to back to back is some of the best punk music ever written. I wish I liked it even more than I did but I guess the coolest thing about The Clash to me was always how eclectic their tastes were and I find myself missing that. Though I do love how much stripped down Clash reminds me of The Jam. Still good shit!
Lekker punk albumpje, ondanks dat ik (nu nog) weinig punk luister!
DNF
Repetitive sound with a couple songs to be outstanding
Appreciate it especially while reading Billy Idol's book, but not really my vibe.
This is another album, I already own. I love it. Perfect early punk rock.
4/5 Highlights: career opportunities, cheat, protex blue, London burning, white rot
This may clash with people on here, but I didn't care for this album at all. It 's loaded with basic English Rock tunes Favorite Track: "White Riot"
Classic clash sounds like angry young boys but with some melody and attempt at song writing. I know: I’m so bored with the usa, police and thieves
4 stars
Good for aggressive cycle. Not my vibe tho
Thought I'd enjoy this more than I actually did
Ian Rubbish taking the mic on this one (for Fred Armisen fans). Solid enough punk record but the Clash would put out better records in their future. Still solid and fun. Janine Jones, Cheat and London's Burning are all pretty good. Gets a little old to me after awhile but it may be that I'm just used to the clash's greatest hits/records over their more straightforward punk rock beginnings.
That ain’t London calling, but not many albums are
The opening of Janie Jones, always classic.
Interesante primer disco. No tiene el nivel de london Calling
A good example of early punk. Not particularly interestimg beyond that.
This is the start of Brit punk. Sounds basic to me because it is the blueprint
Solid record
good enough
boring !
Punk rock at its finest.
Not always been the biggest punk fan but really liked this. Punk sounds but with enough variety and musically engaging to keep me interested.
An okay album. Didn’t stand out to me, but had several songs I enjoyed.
An unpolished gem for sure. By itself, nothing too spectacular here. But knowing what type of work they were to produce later, you can hear the foundation in this debut. That alone is enough to round up from a 3.5 to a 4.
I like this a lot, but still a bit raw and, perhaps, not enough variance in the second half. Unfairly, perhaps I am comparing with what comes next.
London Calling is my favorite but this one is also great. Rounding 4.5 up.
I don't love punk, in general, but this is better than most. For the Clash in particular, I like their later stuff more, but you can already tell on this album that they're more talented than the average punk band. 3.5*
A quick half hour lesson on punk
Geil
I feel like there's an ocean's worth of context that I am missing, listening to this album in 2024 rather than when it came out. I have read the reviews and understand it, but I don't *feel* it in my bones the way that is probably necessary to truly *get* the fact that this is essentially the beginning of punk music as a viable mainstream/counter-mainstream genre. That I am appreciative of. But, that said, it sounds a lot like a hollower, less robust-sounding version of many punk acts to come after it. Tonally I love what's happening, but a lot of the music falls flatter for me than I am sure it does for others who have grown up with this album.
Solid debut. But I think it leans too much sometimes into wanting to sound like the sex pistols and that's a punk sound I'm personally not too fond of. Especially considering some of the later Clash songs I've heard that sound a lot more interesting and dynamic. Still a fun listen and one I think I'll come back to!
didn't realize that it was as poppy as it was. Don't think it was mindblowing though
Punk is as Punk does. 2/5
Punk classics, it's shit living in Britain in the 1970s. Yum
Oh hey its the clash album they released before they went shit
Not their best album. Enjoyed it, but nothing special
honestly I was pretty excited to get The Clash because I was so ready for a classic british rock band but I hate to say I was disappointed. I can’t totally pin point what about it I didn’t love, I think it was to like twingey for me if you hat makes sense. I felt like it didn’t mesh well or something? I don’t know what exactly the issue was but something didn’t click for me.
Fun if a bit uncomplicated; always great to hear a classic band's debut to see/hear how far they'd take their music. This is definitely a huge step over most (all?) so-called punk of the time, mostly with the themes and lyrics. My overall issue is that the music isn't quite *there* yet as they'd quickly develop as tremendous songwriters. It's a fun album to listen to in some respects but song for song there's nothing I'd put up as an individual standout. Enjoyable and historically important but their best was coming soon... 5/10 3 stars
London Calling was a record filled with enough content as is to prove to me that The Clash deserved their spot in the punk hall of fame. I didn’t think I ever really needed to hear another record from them. It’s interesting now that I’ve had the chance to go back and become acquainted with the roots of this legendary band. As I’ve said before in the past, I don’t usually do well with just punk music. Listening to the genre at its most barebones and simple, around the period where the word punk actually started being used, usually isn’t my thing. I view it the same way I look at classic 50s rock and roll. I don’t really have a problem with any part of it, but I need something more in order to stay engaged. This debut from the band is some of the most strait-laced, quick and to the point punk music you can find. Which explains its presence as one of the genre’s founding fathers. I should really say a founding father of its placement in the mainstream though. Snobby punk fans could probably name two dozen other records that came before which they think are better. Either way, it’s still an important piece of music history, whether or not you like how popular The Clash is. I was prepared for a relatively enjoyable experience, but not one I was going to write home about. Thankfully, I got more out of this than I anticipated. Through listening to this, I’ve realized Joe Strummer honestly has the Goldilocks of all punk singing voices. It’s not too whiny, but it’s not obvious that he was trying too hard to sound old and cool. The vocals are often my least favorite part about this era of punk too. The guitar and bass playing are fantastic. But I’m not so sold on the drumming. It’s generally pretty basic throughout, aside from a few moments. I don’t recall it being anything mind blowing on London Calling, but it was definitely more unique than this. Other than that, the songs I don’t like are just too basic for my taste. But I believe this could act as a really great entry point into punk, and still stands the test of time. Easily better than Never Mind the Bollocks Here's the Sex Pistols too. Rating: 7/10
Never listened to their debut before. Truly an excellent punk record.
Great music from the Clash!
One of the best albums ever
Simple, fun, and punky. Good music to yell along to.
I am super surprised that I liked this!
Decent, songs will blend in with each other.
Class.
Not a punk listener, and, I haven't listened to any Clash. Totally fresh perspective. Meh. Not my thing, very forgettable. Maybe listening on a Sunday night at 8pm didn’t set the right tone but I have no desire to revisit.
great example of the cutting edge of punk. Love it!
One of the best punk albums, full of energy and some glimpses of the social commentary that The Clash would be known for latter in their career. However, I chose not to rate it with five stars because, though it may come as a political statement, the production does not sound as good as other Clash and punk albums.
This is a great album. There are no bad songs, and I like this type of punk. It’s not too dirty or fast paced
Fine. Couldn’t really get into it
Proof that The Clash was pretty much the only band on the punk scene who knew how to play their instruments. Who would have thought that this would improve the quality of the output???
The Clash proving that you don't have to be a bad musician to play punk. It's controversial, but nonetheless true.
not my type
Good early British punk!
Classic punk - must listen
Bra, men det skulle komma bli bättre....
Upbeat songs and catchy. I liked this one 4 ⭐️
One of the albums that put punk on the map. It's angry, it's got attitude, and it's what started "The Only Band That Matters".
Very good debut, highlighting how the Clash had the potential to be more than just a three chord clash outfit, although tracks like White Riot showed they could do that too. Some highlights include their cover of Police and Thieves, Career Opportunities and London's Burning. Joe Strummer's lyrics are spot on for the politics and social issues of the time
I like how all the songs are named after the chorus/main lyrics It's good! Protex Blue stand out track
God bless 'em.
Loved it
Solid 3 start offering from The Clash
The Good: Solid Punk! The Bad: It's Punk! The Ugly: Punk is meant to be ugly... The Clash are iconic, which is a good thing. Meant to be heard live, which is a shame as that will not be possible until they invent a time-travel-machine. I am [underscore][bod]NOT[/underscore][/bold] a punk fan in general, but I really enjoyed listening to a bunch of friends getting together to just express their sentiments. If you compare this to "modern" punk, the American Idiots, then this far outshines the other unmentionable album. So, I am conflicted on what score to give this... kind of want to give it a 4*, but I will shoot middle of the road instead.
5/10. For some reason, I just don't get The Clash. I am aware that they are an extremely important, talented, and revolutionary band. However, there is something about them that I simply don't get. Sorry.
bangers
Exactly as expected
Meh, I guess I've grown out of punk music cause this didn't do much for me.
This is another one that falls into the "thank you for your service" category. It's fine for what it is. 2.5
The angst is lost on me. I appreciate it, though.
important album in punk music. the clash stood out as definitely a punk band that didn’t sound like any other punk band that i can recall. this one’s a special one, kids. highlights: “janie jones” “white riot” “hate and war” “cheat”
awesome
Love the Clash
Historical group, historical music. Love it
Fuuuuuck yes! Couldn't ask for a better opening track to an album! Warm and fuzzy analog anger! Haven't ever heard Police and Thieves before, and it's awesome. I was either tapping my foot, bopping my head, or drumming on something for every best of this album. Fantastic album
Iconic, what else can be said?
always found The Clash to be a bit overrated.
A punk classic. Every song is awesome.
The album ticks any box you could come up with for a perfect album [X] perfect songs all the way through [X] Innovative [X] Variation in the songs but still coherent [X] Impactful [X] Lyrics that actually mean shit go ahead think of another box, I’m sure this album checks it
Fun, jumpy, political but I struggle to understand what they’re saying. Makes me want to punch someone in a good way.
Rip-roaring and confident right out the gate. I've previously avoided full Clash records - some of these runtimes reek of album bloat - but their debut is incredibly digestible. Easy to trace the lineage from this album to bands like Green Day or Against Me! which, sonically, often lean on emphasizing the "rock ('n roll)" in "punk rock." 3.5/5
It’s about as classic as punk rock can get. A classic debut for a classic band. All the aggression, rage, and socially rebellious lyrics parceled nicely in a 35-minute package. Get in, cause havoc, leave. I’l admit that the tracks are a tad repetitive, and Police and Thieves felt a little out of place for me. But these are very minor complaints. Punk rock albums all have similar sounding tracks and lyrically Police and Thieves fits very well. Overall, it a near perfect effort. Favorite track: London’s Burning Other hits: Janie Jones, Career Opportunities, Remote Control, 48 Hours, Garageland
I own this album. Haven't listened to this in a while, but it just gets better over time. So much more melodic and well-performed than other punk albums. "Move up Starsky...Suck on Kojak"
Wow, I really enjoyed listening to this album from start to end. Several songs that I knew and good reminders of more obscure numbers.
Agreed. The Clash are required listening. I don't think this is quite as good as London Calling, but still strong.
I don't know why *this* was the Clash album that was the one we must listen to until we die. It's OK, kinda standard punk, but some of their later albums were much better. I guess this album would have appeal relative to the early punk scene or to a Clash diehard, but I didn't find it to be hugely compelling.
Solid but not spectacular.
not a big fan, still great tho
Classic punk. Would listen again to the entire album.
Favourite track: Police & Thieves
Great punk.
Much punk. 5/10
hella brit hella punk
Influence on early Green Day is apparent
Clash never disappoints in classic British invasion punk
idk dude
Great album. British punk at its finest. Thoroughly enjoyable. I'll have to explore the rest of their catalog now.
Very important British punk rock album. Favourite Songs: Janie Jones, I'm so Bored with the U.S.A., London's Burning, Police & Thieves. Least Favourite Songs: Cheat, Protex Blue.
I can appreciate how good this album is, given it's importance in the punk scene, even if it is not really my cup of tea. Drums were amazing throughout
I enjoyed this! Very Ramones and I can see where a lot of modern bands get their influence from. Favourite song is probably 48 hours 3/5
Pretty good 70s Brit pop album. Would listen to again
Not as bad as I initially feared, but also not something I would listen to on my own.
GREAT
Pretty great debut. A lil one note, but still some killer songs on here
Pas mauvais, du bon early punk, mais en comparaison à London Calling, c'est un peu moins captivant et accrocheur. 6.5/10
Classic early punk. Light on technical ability, Heavy on angst and lack of F's.
Un álbum tremendamente influyente, con un sonido punk inmortal. The Clash, desde sus inicios, se posicionó como uno de los actos más importantes del género, con un sonido sumamente estridente que a la vez contaba con una sensibilidad increíblemente pop. Pensar que de desde este debut a "London Calling" transcurren solamente 2 años es sorprendente. El debut de The Clash deja al descubierto los simientos de "la única banda que vale la pena", con pistas como "White Riot" y "Remote Control". Sumamente recomendable y muy superior al debut de Sex Pistols.
Love it
I get that this was super influential, but its just not for me.
Scrappy protest chants Roared to rat-a-tat approach Punk rock leaps forward
The Clash might be my favorite punk rock band. But I hate punk rock, so that makes them my 10,000th or so favorite band overall, behind basically all bands in all genres I don’t hate, except Radiohead. Even a punk rock band can be better than Radiohead. But most punk rock bands aren’t even good enough to be better than Radiohead, and that is really saying something, cause Radiohead sucks. Punk rockers are the ultimate posers. It’s all an act. Punk rock is the least authentic genre of music ever. It was invented by a clothing store owner to sell T-shirts to scene kids (https://www.express.co.uk/entertainment/music/1420480/Sex-Pistols-manager-Malcolm-McLaren-punk-rock-johnny-rotten-evg/amp). Even the cheesiest musicians generally care about music. But not punk rockers. They only care about looking cool and drinking or shooting heroin and being angry at whatever they are angry at. And most of them are too dumb to even articulate what it is they are angry at. Pop garbage is made by people who only care about making money and being famous instead of music and punk rock is made by people who only care about looking cool and drinking or shooting heroin and being angry instead of music. The entire genre is a put-on that only the truly, deeply stupid fall for. All that being said, the Clash are okay.
This is some solid punk. It's pretty simple, which isn't a knock against it, but it does kind of cap how great it can be. Yeah, the simplicity of the album cannot be overstated. A good album, but nothing particularly special, other than it sets punk off onto a great track. Favorite Song(s): What's My Name
Amazing record that still sounds fresh today! It sounds like the base for so many records that followed this one.
Real good; I think I like this the most out of the Clash albums we've heard so far. 4/5
Really enjoyed this album. I've heard it, but the US version, long ago. I'm sad that Clash City Rockers isn't on this one, but it's very good. I love Police and Thieves a bunch. 4/5
Probably a better punk album than London Calling, especially the US version. B+
The Clash are 1 of the exceptions to the rule. The rule being that Punk = Crap. The Clash are somehow more talented and skilled than the average punk rocker. Not talented and skilled enough for me to actively seek out their music but I didn't turn it off in disgust either.
Of course this is an important album in the history of punk. Still, it sounds so "mild" today, not "wild" in any way, simply some nice punk songs. Obviously the 47 (!) years which have passed have changed music a lot.
Absolutely love this album, couple of weaker tracks otherwise would be a solid 5 stars
3.5 stars rounded up.
What an auspicious debut. I was really struck by how self assured the band sounds already.
Loved it
Perfection
I'm more of a fan of what comes later but this is as good as more pure punk gets. Simply the best band of all time
Hou van the clash, en dit album eigenlijk nog nooit in z’n geheel gehoord. De echte clash sound, ik vind het nice
3.5/5 Some really enjoyable punk rock, easily digestible, and flowing well throughout. There are truly great moments, but most of the album is just good. Janie Jones 4.5/5 Remote Control 3/5 I'm so Bored with the U.S.A. 4.5/5 White Riot 3/5 Hate & War 3.5/5 What's My Name 4.5/5 Deny 3.5/5 London's Burning 3.5/5 Career Opportunities 3/5 Cheat 3.5/5 Protex Blue 3/5 Police & Thieves 5/5 (FAV) 48 Hours 2.5/5 (LEAST FAV) Garageland 3/5
Nothing stellar. The opening track is great though! 2.5/5
Nicht meine Richtung
I’ve never been smitten with The Clash but perhaps it’s time for a reevaluation. I did like this album even though the cover of Junior Murvin’s ‘Police and Thieves’ is not stellar. Solid stuff
Enjoyable
Not bad quite enjoyed 5/10
Just good music 4
Could be good if you're in the mood for it, but won't put you in a good mood by itself. Bored with the USA is good
One of the best debuts of all time!
A bit boring, lacks some more kick
I mean come on
debuut om U tegen te zeggen... onmisbare plaat voor elke rechtgeaarde punker
It’s just a fact of life. No matter how much I listen to The Clash, they will always make feel a bit depressed. I just find the delivery soul destroying, terrible singers, bang average guitars and terrible production. However, they actually have decent lyrics and something to say, which is more than most punks bands. Which all in all it does just generally evoke the relatively depressing times of the late 70s in the UK. I prefer music to make me smile, so for me, this just makes me want to stop listening to it. It should be a 1*, but I’ll give it an extra mark for them actually having something positive to say.
Boring poppy rock.
I liked this a lot more than I thought I would! I think I listened to the clash when I was younger and it never really hit me. This album though! Really good high energy. White Riot is a bit weird, like I get the idea but you’re allowed to riot with the black people, probably be more effective that way. Anyway that’s a nitpick. It DOES get a little tiring toward the end…
The Clash are like a worse version of Ramones. Every song sounds the same, but the song isn't quite as good as the Ramones. Overall just kinda mediocre and forgettable. I'm just not a big fan.
This is quintessential punk—and I love me some good punk. I'm gonna go punch a cop
I didnt listen to but i need to
Somewhat better than what I remembered but I still struggle to understand why they're the so-called "only band that matters"
I never really got how good people think this band is.
Their lyrics might be cool, but their music feels so redundant and boring. I must admit I'll never be able to love The Clash.