3. The Clash - London Calling
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQ4E4a7Q4Ag A highly regarded album, considered by many to be the most influential punk album ever, London Calling finds the band at their most ambitious. Written during a time of great despair, the band having low finances despite some success from their first albums, the country was also at a low point. These both are greatly represented in the lyrical subject matter, ranging from drug use and racial conflict, to unemployment and social displacement. The newfound responsibilities of adulthood are also a focus throughout the album. These heavier topics, combined with some outstanding music, make for an absolutely outstanding album. A truly landmark album, London Calling features an eclectic take on punk music. Blending everything from reggae, ska and rockabilly, to jazz, rap and hard rock, the curious mixture of styles performs marvellously. Led largely by the bands furiously strummed guitars, London Calling also features a broader use of other instruments. Pianos and horns are present throughout, a definite contrast from other punk bands of the time. The iconic cover art, a slightly blurred photo of Simonon smashing his bass guitar, is considered one of the best album covers of all time. The styling of the words is an homage to Elvis Presley's debut album. Best of Album 1: 1. London Calling 2. Rudie Can't Fail 3. Lost In The Supermarket Best of Album 2: 1. Train In Vain 2. Wrong 'Em Boyo 3. The Card Cheat