The Clash: Sometimes you need a kick in the head

There's quite a bit of punk rock represented in my music collection. Back in the late 70's, before most of you were born, my listening preferences were moving away from corporate rock in favor of new wave and punk rock. Imagine hearing the first Ramones album right after listening to Journey or Ted Nugent. It was a complete trip, one that I really didn't "get" at the time. I thought that The Ramones were sophomoric retards who had no idea how to play their instruments. I was so wrong about this that I have probably never been so wrong again in my entire life.

Even though I didn't appreciate the Ramones, I did fall in love with The Clash. Here was a band that sorta understood their instruments, but they also offered a lyrical component that wasn't available from anyone else. Songs like "Janie Jones," and "I'm so Bored with the USA" crept into my band's set list. But it was the seminal album, London Calling, that had the most impact upon my young life. There are so many treasures on this album ("Guns of Brixton," "The Card Cheat") that each listen still to this day causes chills to run up and down my spine. For a few years, the planets were aligned for Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon, and Topper Headon.

Last night, VH1 played the Joe Strummer video for "Redemption Song," and I nearly broke out in tears as I thought about the joy that Mr. Strummer brought to so many of us. Strummer's solo records were the work of a man who'd seen a lot in his life. He became a father, and became to realize that a lot of people depended upon him. This must have been contrary to his London squatter beginnings, where one only worried about the next meal. A heart attack took Joe Strummer from us in 2002.

For those seeking some modern adult punk, I recommend T.V. Smith (formerly of the early punk band The Adverts), or New Model Army. These artists create passionate, political punk that will be appreciated by fans of The Clash.