About this album
Where they were
Released in 2003, 'The Essential Clash' serves as a comprehensive retrospective of The Clash's influential career, which began with their self-titled debut in 1977. By this point, the band had disbanded in 1986, solidifying their legacy as pioneers of punk and post-punk music, while this compilation showcases their diverse sound evolution through various genres.
Why it matters
'The Essential Clash' is significant for its role in introducing new listeners to The Clash's extensive catalog, featuring tracks that define the punk movement. It has received critical acclaim, noted for its curation that highlights the band's innovative approach and cultural impact, cementing their status as one of the most important bands of their era.
Essential tracks
- "London Calling" — This iconic title track encapsulates the band's genre-blending approach, combining punk rock with reggae influences and poignant social commentary.
- "Should I Stay or Should I Go" — With its infectious chorus and catchy rhythms, this song represents The Clash's ability to merge pop sensibilities with punk energy, appealing to a broad audience.
- "(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais" — This track showcases The Clash's adeptness at addressing complex social issues while maintaining a compelling musical narrative, blending reggae with punk ethos.
Release Date
March 11, 2003
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 White Riot 2:00
- 2 1977 1:40
- 3 London’s Burning 2:10
- 4 Complete Control 3:14
- 5 Clash City Rockers 3:48
- 6 I’m So Bored With the U.S.A. 2:25
- 7 Career Opportunities 1:52
- 8 Hate & War 2:05
- 9 Cheat 2:06
- 10 Police & Thieves 6:01
- 11 Janie Jones 2:06
- 12 Garageland 3:13
- 13 Capital Radio One 2:09
- 14 (White Man) In Hammersmith Palais 4:00
- 15 English Civil War 2:35
- 16 Tommy Gun 3:16
- 17 Safe European Home 3:50
- 18 Julie’s Been Working for the Drug Squad 3:04
- 19 Stay Free 3:39
- 20 Groovy Times 3:29
- 21 I Fought the Law 2:41
Disc 2
- 1 London Calling 3:20
- 2 The Guns of Brixton 3:10
- 3 Clampdown 3:49
- 4 Rudie Can’t Fail 3:28
- 5 Lost in the Supermarket 3:47
- 6 Jimmy Jazz 3:55
- 7 Train in Vain 3:10
- 8 Bankrobber 4:33
- 9 The Magnificent Seven 5:33
- 10 Ivan Meets G.I. Joe 3:11
- 11 Stop the World 2:32
- 12 Somebody Got Murdered 3:35
- 13 The Street Parade 3:28
- 14 Broadway 4:56
- 15 This Is Radio Clash 4:10
- 16 Ghetto Defendant 4:44
- 17 Rock the Casbah 3:41
- 18 Straight to Hell 5:30
- 19 Should I Stay or Should I Go 3:09
- 20 This Is England 3:51