Vinyl of the Week - 22 MARCH 2020

London Calling, The Clash

This week’s pick is ‘London Calling’ by The Clash, an album with one of the most iconic covers in history. This is a story all of its own, the picture taken by renowned English photographer Pennie Smith as she backed away from bassist Paul Simonon mid instrument smash. The cover design pays homage to the first rock and roll album by Elvis Presley circa 1956 with the same font and colour scheme, a deliberately provocative choice. As for the music - it begins with the raw rebellious punk sound of the opening track but then takes you on an amazingly diverse journey with references to blues, reggae, jazz, country and hard rock. It was 1980; a new decade and a new sound, reflecting the band’s growing interest in styles beyond their punk roots. The result? One of the greatest albums of all time. But don’t take my word for it, go listen for yourself - DS