The Clash — The Guns of Brixton
Album: London CallingAvg rating:
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Total ratings: 1822
Length: 3:04
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When they kick out your front door
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun
When the law break in
How you gonna go?
Shot down on the pavement
Or waiting in death row
You can crush us
You can bruise us
But you'll have to answer to
Oh, Guns of Brixton
The money feels good
And your life you like it well
But surely your time will come
As in heaven, as in hell
You see, he feels like Ivan
Born under the Brixton sun
His game is called survivin'
At the end of the harder they come
You know it means no mercy
They caught him with a gun
No need for the Black Maria
Goodbye to the Brixton sun
You can crush us
You can bruise us
But you'll have to answer to
Oh-the guns of Brixton
When they kick out your front door
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun
You can crush us
You can bruise us
And even shoot us
But oh- the guns of Brixton
Shot down on the pavement
Waiting in death row
His game was survivin'
As in heaven as in hell
You can crush us
You can bruise us
But you'll have to answer to
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun
When the law break in
How you gonna go?
Shot down on the pavement
Or waiting in death row
You can crush us
You can bruise us
But you'll have to answer to
Oh, Guns of Brixton
The money feels good
And your life you like it well
But surely your time will come
As in heaven, as in hell
You see, he feels like Ivan
Born under the Brixton sun
His game is called survivin'
At the end of the harder they come
You know it means no mercy
They caught him with a gun
No need for the Black Maria
Goodbye to the Brixton sun
You can crush us
You can bruise us
But you'll have to answer to
Oh-the guns of Brixton
When they kick out your front door
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun
You can crush us
You can bruise us
And even shoot us
But oh- the guns of Brixton
Shot down on the pavement
Waiting in death row
His game was survivin'
As in heaven as in hell
You can crush us
You can bruise us
But you'll have to answer to
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Oh, the guns of Brixton
Comments (192)add comment
Still a very outstanding album packed with great songs 👍
vandal wrote:
You're an idiot
They say it takes one to know one.. ;)
You're an idiot
They say it takes one to know one.. ;)
novastar wrote:
Boring band, in fact quite annoying.
As has been noted by others, you're a douche-bag.
Boring band, in fact quite annoying.
As has been noted by others, you're a douche-bag.
Likely the most radical song ever recorded! Gave it a 9.
novastar wrote:
Boring band, in fact quite annoying.
You're an idiot
Boring band, in fact quite annoying.
You're an idiot
finally! played again! ah, that feels so good, what a great song. there's a version of it with a child singing it on the sandinista! album by the clash. it's at the end of "broadway".
a read some strange comments with ratings below 10... ts, ts, ts
a read some strange comments with ratings below 10... ts, ts, ts
The mighty Clash,such a great song and outstanding album ✌️
In their top 3 songs, in my opinion 👍
Boring band, in fact quite annoying. This is one of my all-time favorite albums. Outstanding. However, I don't love this song as much as many others.
OceanBlue wrote:
Cool people listen to the very cool Clash ( and Strummer )
No offence or harm if you don't "get" them.
Maybe I was just born in the wrong place and wrong time for this song, but to my ears it's sloppy out-of-tune silliness. What's the hype again?
Cool people listen to the very cool Clash ( and Strummer )
No offence or harm if you don't "get" them.
markybx wrote:
He SHOULD.
Hey Bill, you could follow this with Beats International Dub Be Good To Me
He SHOULD.
Dub be good to me!
Bocephus wrote:
I have seen comments similar to this among the song comments for various songs played here at RP. Says it all, really. The sheer power and wonder of music. Some may say such statements are hyperbole. They are wrong.
This album changed my life when it came out. Simply brilliant.
I have seen comments similar to this among the song comments for various songs played here at RP. Says it all, really. The sheer power and wonder of music. Some may say such statements are hyperbole. They are wrong.
Ulises wrote:
The only sad thing is wankers like you.
Yeah by not understanding what I wrote und dishing out insults instead of an education you just made it abundently clear what you are, mate!
thanks for clearing that, much oblidged Tinhead!
The only sad thing is wankers like you.
Yeah by not understanding what I wrote und dishing out insults instead of an education you just made it abundently clear what you are, mate!
thanks for clearing that, much oblidged Tinhead! VH1 wrote:
Like nowadays you mean? There has nothing changed since this was recorded. Brixton and much of Britain is still under siege from violent racist cops!
Just the same as in the US of A, isn't it?
So, yeah an honest song for all times since the 80s, because nothing has changed.
Sad, really!
The only sad thing is wankers like you.
Like nowadays you mean? There has nothing changed since this was recorded. Brixton and much of Britain is still under siege from violent racist cops!
Just the same as in the US of A, isn't it?
So, yeah an honest song for all times since the 80s, because nothing has changed.
Sad, really!
The only sad thing is wankers like you.
Hey Bill, you could follow this with Beats International Dub Be Good To Me
fredriley wrote:
There's no hype. This is a genuine song from the time when Brixton was under siege by violent, racist cops. See my comment below for a link to the song meaning.
Like nowadays you mean? There has nothing changed since this was recorded. Brixton and much of Britain is still under siege from violent racist cops!
Just the same as in the US of A, isn't it?
So, yeah an honest song for all times since the 80s, because nothing has changed.
Sad, really!
There's no hype. This is a genuine song from the time when Brixton was under siege by violent, racist cops. See my comment below for a link to the song meaning.
Like nowadays you mean? There has nothing changed since this was recorded. Brixton and much of Britain is still under siege from violent racist cops!
Just the same as in the US of A, isn't it?
So, yeah an honest song for all times since the 80s, because nothing has changed.
Sad, really!
OceanBlue wrote:
There's no hype. This is a genuine song from the time when Brixton was under siege by violent, racist cops. See my comment below for a link to the song meaning.
Maybe I was just born in the wrong place and wrong time for this song, but to my ears it's sloppy out-of-tune silliness. What's the hype again?
There's no hype. This is a genuine song from the time when Brixton was under siege by violent, racist cops. See my comment below for a link to the song meaning.
i came here to talk about the song, the album, seeing The Clash live, nicking the poster from the record shop (still got it) & stuff, but now ive read some of whats on here already, i've kinda lost the will. Boo!
Maybe I was just born in the wrong place and wrong time for this song, but to my ears it's sloppy out-of-tune silliness. What's the hype again?
fredriley wrote:
Although the original intent of the writer may be one thing, lyrics can still mean different things to different people depending on the listener's time and place. This song just makes me want to go do some target practice with my .38. Oh, and my .44 mag, and my .357 mag, and my other .357 mag, and my .22, and my other .22, and my other .22, and my .270, and my Colt .45. And just so they don't get lonely and feel left out I should shoot my 20 gauge and my 12 gauge, and also my other 20 gauge and my other 12 gauge. The song also reminds me that I need to work towards purchasing a .30-06 and an AR-15 and an AR-10 and a Kimber .45. I hope I'm not forgetting anything.
Once again, and perhaps unsurprisingly given that most RP punters are in the USA, the comments have descended into the sterile, stereotypical and, for this song, completely inappropriate rote arguments about gun control.
As with so many songs, to understand them you have to situate them in their time and place, in this case Brixton in the 80s when it was (or so the inhabitants felt) under siege by violent, racist cops. (A Met police high-up, whose name escapes me, readily admitted recently that the Met were violent and racist against Brixton, though he had the good grace to regret it.) The short Wikipedia article on this song is interesting and worth reading. According to it, the song lyrics "discuss an individual's paranoid outlook on life" and aren't a literal call to arms.
As with so many songs, to understand them you have to situate them in their time and place, in this case Brixton in the 80s when it was (or so the inhabitants felt) under siege by violent, racist cops. (A Met police high-up, whose name escapes me, readily admitted recently that the Met were violent and racist against Brixton, though he had the good grace to regret it.) The short Wikipedia article on this song is interesting and worth reading. According to it, the song lyrics "discuss an individual's paranoid outlook on life" and aren't a literal call to arms.
Although the original intent of the writer may be one thing, lyrics can still mean different things to different people depending on the listener's time and place. This song just makes me want to go do some target practice with my .38. Oh, and my .44 mag, and my .357 mag, and my other .357 mag, and my .22, and my other .22, and my other .22, and my .270, and my Colt .45. And just so they don't get lonely and feel left out I should shoot my 20 gauge and my 12 gauge, and also my other 20 gauge and my other 12 gauge. The song also reminds me that I need to work towards purchasing a .30-06 and an AR-15 and an AR-10 and a Kimber .45. I hope I'm not forgetting anything.
wow. just WOW... 
Once again, and perhaps unsurprisingly given that most RP punters are in the USA, the comments have descended into the sterile, stereotypical and, for this song, completely inappropriate rote arguments about gun control.
As with so many songs, to understand them you have to situate them in their time and place, in this case Brixton in the 80s when it was (or so the inhabitants felt) under siege by violent, racist cops. (A Met police high-up, whose name escapes me, readily admitted recently that the Met were violent and racist against Brixton, though he had the good grace to regret it.) The short Wikipedia article on this song is interesting and worth reading. According to it, the song lyrics "discuss an individual's paranoid outlook on life" and aren't a literal call to arms.
As with so many songs, to understand them you have to situate them in their time and place, in this case Brixton in the 80s when it was (or so the inhabitants felt) under siege by violent, racist cops. (A Met police high-up, whose name escapes me, readily admitted recently that the Met were violent and racist against Brixton, though he had the good grace to regret it.) The short Wikipedia article on this song is interesting and worth reading. According to it, the song lyrics "discuss an individual's paranoid outlook on life" and aren't a literal call to arms.
Stropatus wrote:
Oh I don't know ...
but I do know that I'd rather be judged by six than carried by six ...
ymmv
Thanks to oldsaxon for reminding us that guns are not a solution to security
Oh I don't know ...
but I do know that I'd rather be judged by six than carried by six ...
ymmv
One reason we need guns is stalkers.
to my ears, this drum bass riff was sampled in
https://goo.gl/nwW8dl Dub Be good to me
infact wikipedia confirms it.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dub_Be_Good_to_Me
https://goo.gl/nwW8dl Dub Be good to me
infact wikipedia confirms it.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dub_Be_Good_to_Me
Thin_Air wrote:
Your having a laugh, right? This comment surely was intended as an odd form of sarcasm? I hope so, as the alternative reason isn't good for you ... Gordon.
Jilted John was a comedy novelty hit, an alter ego of graham fellows, a comedian.
The Clash, on the other hand, were the thinking mans side of Punk - a genre they rapidly grew out of. They fused Reggae with punk, with rock to create a thankfully lasting and influential legacy that gave Punk some direction, something other than just being 'angry'.
Now either stop being obscurely sarcastic, as sarcasm is hard to convey in a forum, or go and read a little on Wikipedia before making such daft sweeping statements.
Grossly overrated band - naff songs - more akin to light pop music (where's the anger?).
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
Your having a laugh, right? This comment surely was intended as an odd form of sarcasm? I hope so, as the alternative reason isn't good for you ... Gordon.
Jilted John was a comedy novelty hit, an alter ego of graham fellows, a comedian.
The Clash, on the other hand, were the thinking mans side of Punk - a genre they rapidly grew out of. They fused Reggae with punk, with rock to create a thankfully lasting and influential legacy that gave Punk some direction, something other than just being 'angry'.
Now either stop being obscurely sarcastic, as sarcasm is hard to convey in a forum, or go and read a little on Wikipedia before making such daft sweeping statements.
Thin_Air wrote:
Being angry and being effective are usually two different things. First they were, if not the first, then the first to successfully meld reggae and punk together. Their influence and impact are huge and imho generally greatly understated.
I don't like the Beatles but I don't state that they are bad, they just grate on me in a harsh way, but that's my taste.
Grossly overrated band - naff songs - more akin to light pop music (where's the anger?).
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
Being angry and being effective are usually two different things. First they were, if not the first, then the first to successfully meld reggae and punk together. Their influence and impact are huge and imho generally greatly understated.
I don't like the Beatles but I don't state that they are bad, they just grate on me in a harsh way, but that's my taste.
A good one, this. Wanna hear Sure looks funny...That's Montgomery CLIFT, Honey! RP strikes The Right Profile way more often than not!
Sasha2001 wrote:
IMO they detract form an otherwise brilliant song. YMMV.
I mean, what the hell is going on in this song? Was it secretly produced by Spike Jones (not Jonze)? Do the cartoony sound effects add to or take away from it's brilliance?
IMO they detract form an otherwise brilliant song. YMMV.
Oh HELLS YES.
its the Sproing in the tune that makes me like it.
Always loved this album. I remember the day I carried it home and spun it for the first time. Love at first listen. May be overated but so is my wife and I still love her? Happy Mother's Day?
I'm with you on the 'grossly over-rated' comment but you are clearly extracting the urine with the Jilted John ref. Mind you, I had recently been dumped by a girl called Julie when that was out.
Clash, some great rock tunes but just dont get the hero worship for the artist formerly known as 'Woody Mellor'. As for all that cod reggae and really bad (C)rapping, leave it out guvnor.
Thin_Air wrote:
Clash, some great rock tunes but just dont get the hero worship for the artist formerly known as 'Woody Mellor'. As for all that cod reggae and really bad (C)rapping, leave it out guvnor.
Thin_Air wrote:
Grossly overrated band - naff songs - more akin to light pop music (where's the anger?).
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
actually thought this was a cover version. me no likey but Jimmy Cliff is very good.
NoEnzLefttoSplit wrote:
Sandinista... it's tacked on at the end of "Broadway" where she says "that's enough now... I'm tired of singing."
I love of the version sung by kids, where she says at the end,
"that's enough singing now"... hell, where was that?
"that's enough singing now"... hell, where was that?
Sandinista... it's tacked on at the end of "Broadway" where she says "that's enough now... I'm tired of singing."
oldsaxon wrote:
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous.
Well, see there, you just said why we need guns in the USA. We don't live in a civilized society. And what civilization there is is just a thin veneer masking a lawlessness held in check by the most tenuous restraint.
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous.
Well, see there, you just said why we need guns in the USA. We don't live in a civilized society. And what civilization there is is just a thin veneer masking a lawlessness held in check by the most tenuous restraint.
I love of the version sung by kids, where she says at the end,
"that's enough singing now"... hell, where was that?
"that's enough singing now"... hell, where was that?
oldsaxon wrote:
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous. There are police, armies, you know...well trained, well equipped, and hopefully not drunk or angry, people who can carry the guns, don't you think? How often has a "meth making slimeball" entered your home? How often have you shot your weapon at a soda tin or a silhouette of a person? Why do you really want the gun?
I'd hate to live in America. It seems the place is swarming with violent, drug crazed animals that want nothing more than to destroy personal property. At least that's the message I get from those in the US waving their right to bear arms.
The UK faction are all in agreement! .... except I'd say 'very gratuitous'!
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous. There are police, armies, you know...well trained, well equipped, and hopefully not drunk or angry, people who can carry the guns, don't you think? How often has a "meth making slimeball" entered your home? How often have you shot your weapon at a soda tin or a silhouette of a person? Why do you really want the gun?
I'd hate to live in America. It seems the place is swarming with violent, drug crazed animals that want nothing more than to destroy personal property. At least that's the message I get from those in the US waving their right to bear arms.
The UK faction are all in agreement! .... except I'd say 'very gratuitous'!
tonypf wrote:
Well said fb (if, of course, your bear has a large tongue in cheek)..
I hope the bear has a large tongue, so I can eat it. Bears do walk into houses looking for food fairly often up here. They usually don't use the door, and they never go out the same way they came in.
Well said fb (if, of course, your bear has a large tongue in cheek)..
I hope the bear has a large tongue, so I can eat it. Bears do walk into houses looking for food fairly often up here. They usually don't use the door, and they never go out the same way they came in.
Incredible, Amazing, Monstrous
flyboy wrote:
Not to mention the occasional bear that comes crashing through the door looking for food.
Well said fb (if, of course, your bear has a large tongue in cheek)..
Not to mention the occasional bear that comes crashing through the door looking for food.
Well said fb (if, of course, your bear has a large tongue in cheek)..
oldsaxon wrote:
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous. There are police, armies, you know...well trained, well equipped, and hopefully not drunk or angry, people who can carry the guns, don't you think? How often has a "meth making slimeball" entered your home? How often have you shot your weapon at a soda tin or a silhouette of a person? Why do you really want the gun?
I'd hate to live in America. It seems the place is swarming with violent, drug crazed animals that want nothing more than to destroy personal property. At least that's the message I get from those in the US waving their right to bear arms.
Agreed oldsaxon. Whenever I read this kind off stuff from US americans it reminds me of Obelix and his assertion "These Romans are crazy".
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous. There are police, armies, you know...well trained, well equipped, and hopefully not drunk or angry, people who can carry the guns, don't you think? How often has a "meth making slimeball" entered your home? How often have you shot your weapon at a soda tin or a silhouette of a person? Why do you really want the gun?
I'd hate to live in America. It seems the place is swarming with violent, drug crazed animals that want nothing more than to destroy personal property. At least that's the message I get from those in the US waving their right to bear arms.
Agreed oldsaxon. Whenever I read this kind off stuff from US americans it reminds me of Obelix and his assertion "These Romans are crazy".
Thin_Air wrote:
RU Freaking kidding me. "more akin to light pop music" WTF
As Lester Bangs said at the time - the only band that matters.
You clearly don't own most of their catalog.
Grossly overrated band - naff songs - more akin to light pop music (where's the anger?).
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
RU Freaking kidding me. "more akin to light pop music" WTF
As Lester Bangs said at the time - the only band that matters.
You clearly don't own most of their catalog.
Grossly overrated band - naff songs - more akin to light pop music (where's the anger?).
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
That said if you're voting for them on the basis of their social impact then ok give them a 5 but there were loads of other bans around at the time who said so much more and angrily at that.
Jilted John - now there was a musician with a statement to make.
Jimmy Cliff's version is the BEST!
jpfueler wrote:
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Amen
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Amen
neuticle wrote:
Maybe you have a short attention span..
No, neut. Try another thought instead of repeating it on different people.
Maybe you have a short attention span..
No, neut. Try another thought instead of repeating it on different people.
I mean, what the hell is going on in this song? Was it secretly produced by Spike Jones (not Jonze)? Do the cartoony sound effects add to or take away from it's brilliance?
hencini wrote:
Ditto that.
I cannot handle how good this song is.
Ditto that.
jpfueler wrote:
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous. There are police, armies, you know...well trained, well equipped, and hopefully not drunk or angry, people who can carry the guns, don't you think? How often has a "meth making slimeball" entered your home? How often have you shot your weapon at a soda tin or a silhouette of a person? Why do you really want the gun?
I'd hate to live in America. It seems the place is swarming with violent, drug crazed animals that want nothing more than to destroy personal property. At least that's the message I get from those in the US waving their right to bear arms.
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Your statistics are wrong. Check out gun crime related numbers from either Canada or the UK and then check out America.
In a society of civilized people, armed citizens seem a bit gratuitous. There are police, armies, you know...well trained, well equipped, and hopefully not drunk or angry, people who can carry the guns, don't you think? How often has a "meth making slimeball" entered your home? How often have you shot your weapon at a soda tin or a silhouette of a person? Why do you really want the gun?
I'd hate to live in America. It seems the place is swarming with violent, drug crazed animals that want nothing more than to destroy personal property. At least that's the message I get from those in the US waving their right to bear arms.
sirdroseph wrote:
Short attention span person #2
Mediocre, boring, yep it's The Clash.
Short attention span person #2
kcar wrote:
Beg to differ. Exhibit A, this song.
Also, try listening to "Sandinista" in one go...
Maybe you have a short attention span..
Beg to differ. Exhibit A, this song.
Also, try listening to "Sandinista" in one go...
Maybe you have a short attention span..
jpfueler wrote:
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
I think you need to compare and understand the amount of gun related violence in the UK against the USA before you start spouting off old chap. Very different places, very different attitudes. Anyway, have you ever been the UK? Europe even?
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
I think you need to compare and understand the amount of gun related violence in the UK against the USA before you start spouting off old chap. Very different places, very different attitudes. Anyway, have you ever been the UK? Europe even?
Timeless song. Sadly still very relevant :(
jpfueler wrote:
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Not to mention the occasional bear that comes crashing through the door looking for food.
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Not to mention the occasional bear that comes crashing through the door looking for food.
Stropatus wrote:
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
Great song with loads of relevance today as it had when it was written.
I lived in Brixton in the early 80s so this song brings back some not so pleasant memories
Thanks to oldsaxon for reminding us that guns are not a solution to security
Never ever trust a gov't that does not trust you to be armed. The UK has all but banned firearms of any sort and really has not reduced crime or even gun crime all that much. The law breakers care less about the law...hence their willingness to break it.
When seconds count the police are just minutes away (or for me at times near a half hour). I'll be happier explaining why the meth making slimeball who tried to get me is bled out on my front step instead of having the police explain to my parents why I was killed by some lowlife.
I cannot handle how good this song is.
oldsaxon wrote:
It's all about America, isn't it? Why would anyone think I was aiming that AT someone? I was clear, I thought, that I was glad that *I* am not of the US ilk. Got nothin' against nobody....just hate the idea of guns = security.
It's all about America, isn't it? Why would anyone think I was aiming that AT someone? I was clear, I thought, that I was glad that *I* am not of the US ilk. Got nothin' against nobody....just hate the idea of guns = security.
Great song with loads of relevance today as it had when it was written.
I lived in Brixton in the early 80s so this song brings back some not so pleasant memories
Thanks to oldsaxon for reminding us that guns are not a solution to security
This reminds me of left-wing arguments for gun ownership which I saw on Usenet a while back, a plank of which was that workers need to defend themselves from State and capitalist violence (such as the Pinkertons, back in the early 20th Century, who were paid by employers to physically break strikes). The example most frequently used was of the Black Panthers who, it was said, armed themselves in defence of themselves and their communities against violent racist police forces. I take no view on this as I know little about the BP and don't want to get into a tired (and irrelevant, this side of the Pond) old barney about gun control, but I thought it was interesting that occasionally you get opposition to gun control from the radical Left as well as the barking Right.
The short Wikipedia article on this song is interesting. According to it, the song lyrics "discuss an individual's paranoid outlook on life" and aren't a literal call to arms.
The short Wikipedia article on this song is interesting. According to it, the song lyrics "discuss an individual's paranoid outlook on life" and aren't a literal call to arms.
flyboy wrote:
I could be wrong, but I think OldSaxon was being thankful that he/she is not an American. Sorry that you have to be disappointed with your association with Alaska. If its any consolation, the feeling is mutual for the most part.
It's all about America, isn't it? Why would anyone think I was aiming that AT someone? I was clear, I thought, that I was glad that *I* am not of the US ilk. Got nothin' against nobody....just hate the idea of guns = security.
I could be wrong, but I think OldSaxon was being thankful that he/she is not an American. Sorry that you have to be disappointed with your association with Alaska. If its any consolation, the feeling is mutual for the most part.
It's all about America, isn't it? Why would anyone think I was aiming that AT someone? I was clear, I thought, that I was glad that *I* am not of the US ilk. Got nothin' against nobody....just hate the idea of guns = security.
I really like the (new) Jimmy Cliff cover of this track too!
Give it a listen here:
https://www.covermesongs.com/2011/08/jimmy-cliff-reclaims-the-clashs-guns-of-brixton.html
Give it a listen here:
https://www.covermesongs.com/2011/08/jimmy-cliff-reclaims-the-clashs-guns-of-brixton.html
Cynaera wrote:
Sorry, but Alaska is part of the U.S. - however much we try to pretend otherwise...
I could be wrong, but I think OldSaxon was being thankful that he/she is not an American. Sorry that you have to be disappointed with your association with Alaska. If its any consolation, the feeling is mutual for the most part.
Sorry, but Alaska is part of the U.S. - however much we try to pretend otherwise...
I could be wrong, but I think OldSaxon was being thankful that he/she is not an American. Sorry that you have to be disappointed with your association with Alaska. If its any consolation, the feeling is mutual for the most part.
oldsaxon wrote:
*just thanks any deity handy that he is not an american....
the whole point...oh, never mind....
No, please, continue...
*just thanks any deity handy that he is not an american....
the whole point...oh, never mind....
No, please, continue...
fredriley wrote:
"boring"? Mediocre I can understand as a criticism, but not "boring". Irritating or infuriating or enraging to their critics and enemies, maybe, but for sure The Clash never bored.
Beg to differ. Exhibit A, this song.
Also, try listening to "Sandinista" in one go...
"boring"? Mediocre I can understand as a criticism, but not "boring". Irritating or infuriating or enraging to their critics and enemies, maybe, but for sure The Clash never bored.
Beg to differ. Exhibit A, this song.
Also, try listening to "Sandinista" in one go...
oldsaxon wrote:
*just thanks any deity handy that he is not an american....
the whole point...oh, never mind....
Sorry, but Alaska is part of the U.S. - however much we try to pretend otherwise...
*just thanks any deity handy that he is not an american....
the whole point...oh, never mind....
Sorry, but Alaska is part of the U.S. - however much we try to pretend otherwise...
CLASH ROCKS = 8 at least!
With the recent riots in London and other English cities, this is pretty timely. Oppressive policing, in particular the shooting of a seemingly unarmed guy in Tottenham, was a major spark for the riots. Nothing much has changed since the Clash wrote this one, sadly.
fredriley wrote:
"boring"? Mediocre I can understand as a criticism, but not "boring". Irritating or infuriating or enraging to their critics and enemies, maybe, but for sure The Clash never bored.
Actually that is what The Clash means to me. I don't really think they are all that bad, they do not enrage me and I am not a hater except in context to their worshipers. I see them kind of like Elvis, a great singer and entertainer who released some really good songs. He is not the King of rock and roll, a deity or the greatest icon that ever existed so they both irritate me only in the context of how others see them, not who they are themselves.
"boring"? Mediocre I can understand as a criticism, but not "boring". Irritating or infuriating or enraging to their critics and enemies, maybe, but for sure The Clash never bored.
Actually that is what The Clash means to me. I don't really think they are all that bad, they do not enrage me and I am not a hater except in context to their worshipers. I see them kind of like Elvis, a great singer and entertainer who released some really good songs. He is not the King of rock and roll, a deity or the greatest icon that ever existed so they both irritate me only in the context of how others see them, not who they are themselves.
flyboy wrote:
*just thanks any deity handy that he is not an american....
the whole point...oh, never mind....
This song always reminds me that I need to go do some target practice down at the range. Now I know what I'm doing Saturday.
*just thanks any deity handy that he is not an american....
the whole point...oh, never mind....
This song always reminds me that I need to go do some target practice down at the range. Now I know what I'm doing Saturday.
If you like this album, see if you can find the London Booted remix project that came out in 2004. 19 London DJs remixed/bootlegged/etc. the tracks of the album. So. Good. Nothing beats the original, but some of the interpretations of these songs are just fascinating and almost all are *really* well done. Not nearly so contrived as a lot of mashup projects.
Hearing "Guns of Brixton" mixed with bits of "The Message"............brilliant. "The Card Cheat" instrumental track with Christina Aguilera's "What a Girl Wants" vocals.................surprisingly enjoyable... : )
Hearing "Guns of Brixton" mixed with bits of "The Message"............brilliant. "The Card Cheat" instrumental track with Christina Aguilera's "What a Girl Wants" vocals.................surprisingly enjoyable... : )
1970s British punk gangster rap. Brilliant.
sirdroseph wrote:
"boring"? Mediocre I can understand as a criticism, but not "boring". Irritating or infuriating or enraging to their critics and enemies, maybe, but for sure The Clash never bored.
Mediocre, boring, yep it's The Clash.
"boring"? Mediocre I can understand as a criticism, but not "boring". Irritating or infuriating or enraging to their critics and enemies, maybe, but for sure The Clash never bored.
Mediocre, boring, yep it's The Clash.
"I love both bands. Musically it's sound but the Spanish vocals seem unnecessary. And yes i know the Clash used Spanish backing vocals on should i stay or should i go." leveller661
"this should be listend to in Calexico poit of view! Not Clash's. It's not even a cover, it''s more a remix." PiazzaAlimonda
"Really brilliant in its way. An echo of Strummer's voice coming back from the Third World and with Joe's love of most things Spanish, he would've loved this." hugosalarm
tphord wrote:
Self-absorbed? I don't think so. I think you need to read up on the context and times in which this song was written. In the 80s there was a very sharp class war in the UK, actively pursued and inflamed by the Thatcher regime, and places like Brixton (a culturally mixed working-class area of South London) really got the rough end of the pineapple. In areas like that, the cops were seen as, and indeed acted as, occupying troops, as was admitted by a senior ex-copper recently on a recent UK radio show. Like 'em or loathe 'em, you can never accuse the Clash of being "self-absorbed". "Committed" for sure.
There's a whole Wikipedia page on this song, which is instructive:
""The Guns of Brixton" pre-dates the race riots that took place in the 1980s in Brixton but the lyrics depict the feelings of discontent that were building due to heavy-handedness of the police that led to the riots, the recession and other problems at that time."
The beginning of self-absorbed rage rock and also the overall general decline in music through the present
Self-absorbed? I don't think so. I think you need to read up on the context and times in which this song was written. In the 80s there was a very sharp class war in the UK, actively pursued and inflamed by the Thatcher regime, and places like Brixton (a culturally mixed working-class area of South London) really got the rough end of the pineapple. In areas like that, the cops were seen as, and indeed acted as, occupying troops, as was admitted by a senior ex-copper recently on a recent UK radio show. Like 'em or loathe 'em, you can never accuse the Clash of being "self-absorbed". "Committed" for sure.
There's a whole Wikipedia page on this song, which is instructive:
""The Guns of Brixton" pre-dates the race riots that took place in the 1980s in Brixton but the lyrics depict the feelings of discontent that were building due to heavy-handedness of the police that led to the riots, the recession and other problems at that time."
How you gonna go?
Shot down on the pavement
Or waiting in death row.
Brilliant 9.
Shot down on the pavement
Or waiting in death row.
Brilliant 9.
tphord wrote:
I actually really love this song myself, but to each his own.
The beginning of self-absorbed rage rock and also the overall general decline in music through the present
Thought this was crap in '79 and still do...
Light the torches !
Thought this was crap in '79 and still do...
Light the torches !
I actually really love this song myself, but to each his own.
So BAD... drugged out ignorance... brain damage
The beginning of self-absorbed rage rock and also the overall general decline in music through the present
Thought this was crap in '79 and still do...
Light the torches !
Thought this was crap in '79 and still do...
Light the torches !
thewiseking wrote:
I applaud your comment's spirit of appreciation, but it's a bit misguided.
There was nothing amateurish about The Clash and nothing low about their production values. They were superb musicians and superbly produced.
dysrhythmic, off key, absolutely amateurs, low production values....what's not to love!?!
I applaud your comment's spirit of appreciation, but it's a bit misguided.
There was nothing amateurish about The Clash and nothing low about their production values. They were superb musicians and superbly produced.
Thought it was just me. Totally true.
Bocephus wrote:
Bocephus wrote:
This album changed my life when it came out. Simply brilliant.
dysrhythmic, off key, absolutely amateurs, low production values....what's not to love!?!
1 - 
no squishing allowed
cdanthony wrote:
Wow, I really wouldn't have thought that even physically possible. This song epitomizes their greatness.
I love the Clash.
But not this.
But not this.
Wow, I really wouldn't have thought that even physically possible. This song epitomizes their greatness.
AND WHAT ABOUT Y-M-C-A?
Zep wrote:
Zep wrote:
I have to agree with tet and I'm an old geezer baby boomer! The Clash were not, nor ever were "posuers" they are the real deal!!
toterola wrote:
Ahhh... I think you have The Clash confused with Generation X, or one of the other "hey, I'm a punk, too" bands.
The Clash took the hard road to everything they ever accomplished, even putting out a multi-disc album named after the Sandinista anti-Fascist guerrillas in the Reagan 80s.
Sometimes I wished they were more accessible, back in the day. By the time Combat Rock came out and my friends started to really like the band, they were no more.
These guys were most definitely not poseurs. Anything but.
In reply to: acidreflucks wrote: poseurs.
toterola wrote:
Ahhh... I think you have The Clash confused with Generation X, or one of the other "hey, I'm a punk, too" bands.
The Clash took the hard road to everything they ever accomplished, even putting out a multi-disc album named after the Sandinista anti-Fascist guerrillas in the Reagan 80s.
Sometimes I wished they were more accessible, back in the day. By the time Combat Rock came out and my friends started to really like the band, they were no more.
These guys were most definitely not poseurs. Anything but.
In reply to: acidreflucks wrote: poseurs.
cdanthony wrote:
Come on! Don't diss the man. Sure, he really can't sing, but this is pretty much the only bone Joe & Mick threw him in 10 YEARS!!!
Even Ringo got to step up to the mic more than that...
I love the Clash.
But not this.
But not this.
Come on! Don't diss the man. Sure, he really can't sing, but this is pretty much the only bone Joe & Mick threw him in 10 YEARS!!!
Even Ringo got to step up to the mic more than that...
this is awful
johnjconn wrote:
The Knack - My Sharona - June 11, 2010.
And come on, "Ring My Bell" isn't that bad....
London Calling was released in 1979
To fully appreciate how great this album is, look at this list of the top 10 songs of 1979:
1. My Sharona
, The Knack
2. Bad Girls
, Donna Summer
3. Le Freak
, Chic
4. Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?
, Rod Stewart
5. Reunited
, Peaches and Herb
6. I Will Survive
, Gloria Gaynor
7. Hot Stuff
, Donna Summer
8. Y.M.C.A.
, Village People
9. "Ring My Bell"
, Anita Ward
10. Sad Eyes, Robert John
Ok, these 10 songs suck. Thank God for London Calling and the Clash.
ps- Bill for a rule of thumb -do not play anything from 1979 , except anything from London Calling, Springsteen or Costello.
To fully appreciate how great this album is, look at this list of the top 10 songs of 1979:
1. My Sharona
2. Bad Girls
3. Le Freak
4. Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?
5. Reunited
6. I Will Survive
7. Hot Stuff
8. Y.M.C.A.
9. "Ring My Bell"
10. Sad Eyes, Robert John
Ok, these 10 songs suck. Thank God for London Calling and the Clash.
ps- Bill for a rule of thumb -do not play anything from 1979 , except anything from London Calling, Springsteen or Costello.
The Knack - My Sharona - June 11, 2010.
And come on, "Ring My Bell" isn't that bad....
This album changed my life when it came out. Simply brilliant.
Famous bass line...
acidreflucks wrote:
Maybe his judgement is a result of personal experience.
poseurs.
Above geezer was 35 when The Clash came out with this album.Maybe his judgement is a result of personal experience.
The more I hear, the more I like. 
acidreflucks wrote:
Ahhh... I think you have The Clash confused with Generation X, or one of the other "hey, I'm a punk, too" bands.
The Clash took the hard road to everything they ever accomplished, even putting out a multi-disc album named after the Sandinista anti-Fascist guerrillas in the Reagan 80s.
Sometimes I wished they were more accessible, back in the day. By the time Combat Rock came out and my friends started to really like the band, they were no more.
These guys were most definitely not poseurs. Anything but.
poseurs.
Ahhh... I think you have The Clash confused with Generation X, or one of the other "hey, I'm a punk, too" bands.
The Clash took the hard road to everything they ever accomplished, even putting out a multi-disc album named after the Sandinista anti-Fascist guerrillas in the Reagan 80s.
Sometimes I wished they were more accessible, back in the day. By the time Combat Rock came out and my friends started to really like the band, they were no more.
These guys were most definitely not poseurs. Anything but.
sub-arctic wrote:
The Clash were not that interesting for me when they originally came out with this.
And sub-arctic, you are correct, nothing will change that for my personal taste.
However, I'm glad we all don't have the same taste in music, that would be boring.
Sorry, but if this doesn't do the trick, nothing will.
The Clash were not that interesting for me when they originally came out with this.
And sub-arctic, you are correct, nothing will change that for my personal taste.
However, I'm glad we all don't have the same taste in music, that would be boring.
poseurs.
gobits wrote:
When they kick out your front door
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun?
Awesome!!!
Easy decision for me. Gun all the way. Bring it on, I'm looking forward to it.How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun?
Awesome!!!
Nobody rocks like the Clash.
HarrO wrote:
This song in particular chills me to the bone. Godlike, of course.
History in the making.
This song in particular chills me to the bone. Godlike, of course.
RIP Joe Strummer...The world's messed up some times ————————-
I thought this was Ace of Base at the beginning. Now I can see where they got a lot of their ideas!
If you dont have this CD/vinyl in your collection you really dont have a collection. What you have is a collection wannabe.
gobits wrote:
Yeah, spot on. These days those lyrics would get you locked up without trial for "glorifying terrorism". Revolutionary dissent, hell even reformist dissent, is pretty much illegal in the UK these days after a raft of authoritarian laws passed over the last few years by NuLabor. If the Clash were in business these days they'd end up in jail. So much for free f*ckin' speech in the home of the Mother of ParliamentsTM ;-(
When they kick out your front door
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun?
Awesome!!!
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun?
Awesome!!!
Yeah, spot on. These days those lyrics would get you locked up without trial for "glorifying terrorism". Revolutionary dissent, hell even reformist dissent, is pretty much illegal in the UK these days after a raft of authoritarian laws passed over the last few years by NuLabor. If the Clash were in business these days they'd end up in jail. So much for free f*ckin' speech in the home of the Mother of ParliamentsTM ;-(
Proclivities wrote:
Ha, you are funny!!
Paul Simenon's vocals were just so unpolished; his upper register sounds really weak to me. I mean he just doesn't hit those highs or stay in key so well; they should've gotten Michael Bolton to sing this one.
Ha, you are funny!!
Paul Simenon's vocals were just so unpolished; his upper register sounds really weak to me. I mean he just doesn't hit those highs or stay in key so well; they should've gotten Michael Bolton to sing this one.
Dunno why, never really liked this track. I think it's the chanting style?
I thought this was cypress hill at first. That is good, but this is better. Ace! 9!
History in the making.
When they kick out your front door
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun?
Awesome!!!
How you gonna come?
With your hands on your head
Or on the trigger of your gun?
Awesome!!!
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 ...
HazzeSwede wrote:
You might want to check out "Sandinista" from 1980,a three record album,can't remember having anything els on my turntable that year!
Yah, Man............."Sandanista" (triple LP material) and "Black Market Clash' (double 10 inch vinyl) released simultaneously, what a year of Clash wax.........the zenith of an icon band pushing the barriers and pissing off their hard core fans to boot...........but what volcanic inspiration from such a "street band".......check out the final CD done by Joe Strummer many years later...."Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros" - Streetcore.....Joe passed away during production of this great CD.....the band pulled together, amid the emotion of loss, and finished Joe's project, surprisingly, but both, appropriately and amazingly, capturing magic in the respectful process of honouring Joe's work and dedication to "pushing the edge" of musical boundaries..........we miss you, Mr. Strummer
You might want to check out "Sandinista" from 1980,a three record album,can't remember having anything els on my turntable that year!
Yah, Man............."Sandanista" (triple LP material) and "Black Market Clash' (double 10 inch vinyl) released simultaneously, what a year of Clash wax.........the zenith of an icon band pushing the barriers and pissing off their hard core fans to boot...........but what volcanic inspiration from such a "street band".......check out the final CD done by Joe Strummer many years later...."Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros" - Streetcore.....Joe passed away during production of this great CD.....the band pulled together, amid the emotion of loss, and finished Joe's project, surprisingly, but both, appropriately and amazingly, capturing magic in the respectful process of honouring Joe's work and dedication to "pushing the edge" of musical boundaries..........we miss you, Mr. Strummer
DELTA__9__FOOLS wrote:
You might want to check out "Sandinista" from 1980,a three record album,can't remember having anything els on my turntable that year!
Interesting, I, (Being as young as I am) am not overly familiar with The Clash. This being the case, when I heard the song Guns of Brooklyn w/ Jay-Z and Santogold I was impressed but had no idea where the samples had come from, nor that this was the inspiration for the aforementioned track. Super great stuff.
You might want to check out "Sandinista" from 1980,a three record album,can't remember having anything els on my turntable that year!
Interesting, I, (Being as young as I am) am not overly familiar with The Clash. This being the case, when I heard the song Guns of Brooklyn w/ Jay-Z and Santogold I was impressed but had no idea where the samples had come from, nor that this was the inspiration for the aforementioned track. Super great stuff.
cdanthony wrote:
<shrug> I think this is one of their best numbers, in the same danceable vein as Rock The Casbah but far less often played on the radio, so it's nice to hear it on RP. 7 from the Nottingham jury.
I love the Clash.
But not this.
But not this.
<shrug> I think this is one of their best numbers, in the same danceable vein as Rock The Casbah but far less often played on the radio, so it's nice to hear it on RP. 7 from the Nottingham jury.
cdanthony wrote:
I agree. This need not be aired.
I love the Clash.
But not this.
But not this.
I agree. This need not be aired.
Very Very cool ... timeless (unlike DB)
Oscar
Oscar