The Only Band That Matters

You've heard The Clash whether you realize it or not, and have probably even had some of their stuff subconsciously melded to your cerebral cortex.

The Clash was a punk band, part of the initial wave of Britain's punk revolution, but they were much more than that. The musical styles employed by the group transcended any one genre including at one time or another elements of reggae, ska, dub, funk, dance, rockabilly and even some of the first rap on a rock record.

The Clash consisted primarily of Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass guitar, backing vocals, occasional lead vocals) and Nicky "Topper" Headon (drums, percussion).

It's hard to pick my favorite songs of theirs, but "Train In Vain" has always been a favorite. I think it was on one of the old NCAA Football game soundtracks.

I also really like "London Calling", perhaps their best work, and "Rock The Casbah" despite being perhaps their poppiest fare. Most people probably don't realize it tells the fictitious story of a middle eastern King banning rock music, but the people don't listen.

Catchy tune, plus perhaps their most noted music video.