The Clash's London calling

London Calling was a grown-up record. The Clash explored their place in the world, and flexed their muscles in the process, challenging punk dogma and ruling circles at the same time. Rock believers have debated the impact and influence of cultural heroes who preach from the pulpit for generations, and clash fans and foes have had plenty to say. 30 years down the road, the band's music continues to fuel politically charged debate. London Calling, was the band's masterwork, and demands a place in Western culture that's occupied by Picasso's Guernica, Tony Kushner's Angels In America, and the films of Costa-Gravas. London Calling was a smart, tough album. Its grim, sometimes apocalyptic vision is no less relevant today than it was in 1980.