The Clash “The Clash” 1977, Canadian import. I purchased this copy in either ‘87 or ’88 at a used record store in Boston during a high school orchestra trip. It’s kinda shocking the record made it through the 20 hour bus ride back to Wisconsin, what with the 40+ rowdy violin, viola and cello players on board (the bassists got their own bus). I’m not kidding, especially about those viola players.

This Canadian import has the same track listing as the US release, the only difference is that the cover is blue rather than green American version. The UK version tracks differ from the US/Canadian version, as well as the location of the band’s name on the cover.

There is little need for me to expound on the greatness of this record, either UK or US/Canadian, as that has been done by countless articles, books and documentaries. But, gawd, “Clash City Rockers,” “White Riot,” “London’s Burning” and “Career Opportunities” (and on and on) are so amazing and influential – I really just made my own day by putting this one on the turntable.