The Clash
Give 'Em Enough Rope

THE REVIEW

We are in the now distant 1978, the Punk Rock is by now a phenomenon of worldwide fame, a new outlet of expression and rebellion that gives voice to many teenagers of the time.

In such a ominous and eclectic atmosphere, four extravagant figures who were known back then as The Clash were about to release a small gem of passion and fury, a distillation of social and political critique in music, more than a simple record, more than a mere collection of songs: all this was 'Give 'em Enough Rope'.

The opening track of the album is as energetic as one could wish for, it is "Safe European Home", a track of pure Punk Rock, with a raw yet very pleasant and fluid guitar riff, where the exhilarating and intense choruses add significant depth to the track. It proceeds with a crescendo of power, from the theatrical and captivating "English Civil War" to the guerrilla march of "Tommy Gun". But here comes a turning point. The raw "garage" sound, then typical of The Clash, undergoes a transformation: the magnificent "Julie Work In a Drug Squad" enters the scene, a carefree piece of rock n' roll accompanied by a piano in full '50s style; something was changing, the record in question is indeed a sort of transition from early punk rock to a significant artistic maturation, which would give birth to the Clash sound, a brilliant blend of various genres, from reggae to rock n' roll, to funky, which made albums like 'London Calling' and 'Sandinista' so appreciated.

The album is a continuous succession of genres masterfully amalgamated, there is the rock with soul hues of "Drug Stabbin' Time", the brilliant pop of "Stay Free" to the concluding anthem: "All Young Punks", a track destined to be shouted endlessly, thanks to an incisive and marked, almost solemn chorus.

In conclusion, this 'Give 'em Enough Rope', underrated by many, especially for its position as a "transition", is a splendid album full of emotions. Truly a little gem to rediscover and love.