The Clash

The Clash Live in Roskilde: Performance of 'Brand New Cadillac'

Roskilde, Denmark

• In early 1985, The Clash was in a fascinating transitional phase, releasing their album *Cut the Crap* just a month before the Roskilde live recording... Read Full Description >

  In early 1985, The Clash was in a fascinating transitional phase, releasing their album *Cut the Crap* just a month before the Roskilde live recording. This album marked a pivotal moment as it was their last studio effort with the original lineup. The band faced a lot of pressure during this era, especially because founding member Mick Jones was ousted prior to its release, which undoubtedly altered the band's chemistry. Yet, the Roskilde performance shows that despite internal struggles, their raw energy and commitment to live music never waned. This concert, particularly with "Brand New Cadillac" in the setlist, reveals their knack for fusing punk with rockabilly vibes. It’s impressive how the band managed to capture such high-octane spirit even when navigating through these turbulent changes. The performance serves as a reminder that The Clash were not just a band; they were cultural icons continually evolving, even amid controversy.

The Clash Live in Roskilde: 'Three Card Trick' Performance

Roskilde, Denmark

• In January 1985, when The Clash took to the stage at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark, they were riding the wave of their diverse and ambitious album,... Read Full Description >

  In January 1985, when The Clash took to the stage at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark, they were riding the wave of their diverse and ambitious album, "Combat Rock," which dropped just a year earlier. This album, a critical and commercial success, featured iconic tracks like "Should I Stay or Should I Go" and “Rock the Casbah,” showcasing the band’s blend of punk rock, reggae, and hip-hop influences. By the time of the live recording titled "The Three Card Trick," The Clash were grappling with internal tensions, especially as they navigated the complexities of fame and artistic direction. Interestingly, “Combat Rock” was also their last studio effort before a significant lineup change, as Joe Strummer and Mick Jones had begun to drift apart creatively. This performance in Roskilde represents that fascinating crossroads where revolutionary spirit met the challenges of commercial appeal—adding a layer of intrigue to their live sound and delivering a memorable experience for fans. It’s amazing how moments like this capture both the highs and lows of an artist’s journey, isn’t it?

The Clash - Movers and Shakers (Acoustic Live Performance)

• When The Clash took to the stage for "Movers and Shakers" on January 1, 1985, they were in a pivotal phase of their career. Just before this live perf... Read Full Description >

  When The Clash took to the stage for "Movers and Shakers" on January 1, 1985, they were in a pivotal phase of their career. Just before this live performance, they had released the album "Combat Rock" in 1982, which featured some of their most memorable tracks like "Should I Stay or Should I Go" and "Rock the Casbah." This album marked a significant moment for the band, propelling them into the mainstream and showcasing their unique fusion of punk and new wave. By 1985, however, the band faced some internal struggles, leading to evolving dynamics within their lineup. This live acoustic set, a departure from their traditional punk rock sound, reflects how the band was experimenting and adapting to new musical landscapes. Fun fact: “Movers and Shakers” highlights their willingness to blend genres, showing a different, perhaps more vulnerable side of the band during a time when they were figuring out their next steps.

The Clash - Cool Under Heat Live Performance at The Station Pub

Sunderland, England, United Kingdom

• Ah, The Clash! Their rich history is nothing short of fascinating, especially when you dive into the context of live recordings like "Cool Under Heat.... Read Full Description >

  Ah, The Clash! Their rich history is nothing short of fascinating, especially when you dive into the context of live recordings like "Cool Under Heat." This particular performance captured on May 11, 1985, at The Station Pub in Newcastle, represents a significant chapter in the band’s evolution. By this time, The Clash was navigating turbulent waters, having already released their fifth studio album, "Combat Rock," in 1982. This album marked a shift, blending punk rock with more diverse influences, and it spawned hits like "Rock the Casbah." The 1985 live recording was part of a unique busking tour, a loose and spontaneous endeavor, showcasing the band’s willingness to step away from the conventional stadium circuits and embrace a rawer, more intimate connection with their audience. This performance not only highlighted their adaptability but also illustrated how they remained influential and relevant even as their lineup and sound evolved, proving that the spirit of punk was still alive and kicking.

The Clash Full Concert at Salem Hotel in Sunderland

Salem Hotel
Sunderland, UK, United Kingdom

• When The Clash took the stage in Sunderland on May 12, 1985, they were riding the waves of their evolving sound. Right before this live recording, the... Read Full Description >

  When The Clash took the stage in Sunderland on May 12, 1985, they were riding the waves of their evolving sound. Right before this live recording, the band released their album "Cut the Crap" in 1985, which, while polarizing among fans and critics alike, marked a significant departure from their earlier work. This era was particularly tumultuous for the band, as internal conflicts and changes in lineup were beginning to take their toll. Interestingly, this Sunderland show represents a moment when The Clash was still fiercely committed to their punk roots, despite experimenting with more mainstream sounds. It’s a testament to their resilience and dedication that even in a transitioning phase, they delivered memorable performances like this one. The energy captured in this live set showcases their ability to connect with the audience, making it a unique relic from a band that defied categorization and continually pushed the boundaries of music.

The Clash Performance of 'North South' and 'Cool Under Heat' at Gateway Exchange, Edinburgh

Coasters
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

• Back in 1985, The Clash was riding the waves of their ambitious yet controversial phase, having released their album "Combat Rock" in 1982, which brou... Read Full Description >

  Back in 1985, The Clash was riding the waves of their ambitious yet controversial phase, having released their album "Combat Rock" in 1982, which brought hits like "Rock the Casbah" to the forefront. By the time they took to the streets of Edinburgh for their unique busking tour on May 14, 1985, they were navigating the complex waters of punk, rock, and even some world music influences. The Edinburgh footage showcases them performing "North South" and "Cool Under Heat," two tracks that reflect their evolution towards a more experimental sound following their earlier raw punk roots. What's particularly fascinating about this live recording is its grassroots vibe—capturing the essence of The Clash's willingness to engage directly with fans, even in less conventional settings. This busking tour was a bold statement and a way for the band to reconnect with their political roots during turbulent times in the UK. It’s a striking reminder of their legacy, touching on themes that, to this day, resonate with listeners.

The Clash - Full Concert at Roskilde Festival featuring Complete Control, London Calling, and more

Dyrskuepladsen
Roskilde, Region Zealand, Denmark

• In 1985, the year of their electrifying performance at the Roskilde Festival, The Clash were riding high on the wave of their last studio album, "Comb... Read Full Description >

  In 1985, the year of their electrifying performance at the Roskilde Festival, The Clash were riding high on the wave of their last studio album, "Combat Rock," which had dropped just a couple of years earlier in 1982. This album, filled with punk anthems like "Rock the Casbah," was pivotal in shaping their legacy, even though it marked a turn toward a more commercially viable sound. Interestingly, "Combat Rock" was the band’s most commercially successful release, yet it also drew criticism for its departure from the raw punk roots that had initially defined them. By the time they stepped on stage in Denmark, The Clash was battling internal tensions, and the pressure from conflicting artistic visions was palpable. Yet, they undeniably delivered an unforgettable live set that captured their electric energy—blending punk, reggae, and rock in an explosive cocktail that showcased both their hits and their biting social commentary. This performance stands as a lasting testament to their dynamic presence and the tumultuous spirit of the times.

The Clash - Live Performance of 'Pressure Drop' at Roskilde Festival

Dyrskuepladsen
Roskilde, Region Zealand, Denmark

• The Clash's performance of "Pressure Drop" at the Roskilde Festival on June 29, 1985, takes place amid a pivotal point in their career. By this time, ... Read Full Description >

  The Clash's performance of "Pressure Drop" at the Roskilde Festival on June 29, 1985, takes place amid a pivotal point in their career. By this time, the band had just released their album *Sandinista!* in 1980, and they were working on *Cut the Crap*, which would follow in 1985. This live recording highlights the band's ability to blend genres, showcasing their punk roots while embracing reggae influences—perfectly evident in their version of "Pressure Drop," originally by Toots and the Maytals. Interestingly, the Roskilde Festival was a crux for The Clash, providing them with a unique platform to connect with European audiences during their later years. The band's energy and charisma in this performance remind us of their revolutionary spirit, a quality that fueled their legacy even as they navigated challenges and line-up changes during this era. Isn’t it fascinating how some live moments can truly capture the essence of a band's journey?

The Clash Live Performance of 'What's My Name' at Roskilde Festival

Roskilde Festival
Roskilde, Denmark

• The live performance of "What's My Name" on June 30, 1985, at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark captures The Clash during a fascinating and tumultuous ... Read Full Description >

  The live performance of "What's My Name" on June 30, 1985, at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark captures The Clash during a fascinating and tumultuous time in their career. By this point, they had just released their fifth studio album, "Cut the Crap," in late 1985. This recording showcases the band in what many refer to as "Clash II," emphasizing the post-Joe Strummer dynamics that emerged after their original lineup had shifted dramatically. It's intriguing to note how, despite the changes and tensions within the band, Paul Simonon still commands attention with his vocals, albeit with a bit of a rough edge, which many fans saw as emblematic of that era's energy. Plus, the context of this live performance—captured at a major festival—highlights their lingering influence in punk rock, even amidst the battles and controversies that came with their punk roots and commercial aspirations. The Clash, despite all odds, still held their ground, and this rare footage is a testament to their resilience and spirit.

The Clash: 'Three Card Trick' Live Performance at Roskilde Festival in Copenhagen

Roskilde Festival
Copenhagen, Denmark

• In the midst of the vibrant challenge of the mid-1980s punk rock scene, The Clash found themselves both evolving and confronting change as they took t... Read Full Description >

  In the midst of the vibrant challenge of the mid-1980s punk rock scene, The Clash found themselves both evolving and confronting change as they took the stage at the Roskilde Festival in Copenhagen on July 5, 1985. This live performance marked a significant moment during a transitional phase for the band, as they were amid the release of their album *Cut the Crap*, which had come out just months earlier. While *Cut the Crap* didn’t quite receive the same acclaim as their earlier work—mostly attributed to lineup changes and a shift in sound—this live recording showcases a band still brimming with energy and a desire to connect with their audience. Interestingly, this era saw Joe Strummer and his bandmates grappling with their identity while performing in front of enthusiastic crowds, reminding us that even in a state of flux, the raw power of music can captivate and unite.

The Clash - Spanish Bombs Live Performance at RockScene Festival

Site du festival
Guéhenno, Brittany, France

• In July 1985, when The Clash performed “Spanish Bombs” at the RockScene Festival in France, they were in a fascinating phase of their career. Just... Read Full Description >

  In July 1985, when The Clash performed “Spanish Bombs” at the RockScene Festival in France, they were in a fascinating phase of their career. Just a couple of years earlier, they had released their fifth studio album, "Combat Rock" in 1982, which catapulted them into mainstream success with tracks like "Should I Stay or Should I Go." By 1985, however, tensions within the band were mounting, leading to changes in their lineup and sound. This performance marked a transitional period for them; it reflected their struggle to balance their punk roots with evolving musical trends. Interestingly, "Spanish Bombs" itself, a track from "London Calling," showcased their deep engagement with socio-political themes, underlining the band's relevance even amid internal strife. The contrasting energy of their earlier works and this live performance illustrates their enduring legacy, a testament to their passionate, raw approach that captured audiences worldwide.

The Clash - 'Safe European Home' Live Performance at Elexir Festival in France

Elexir Festival
Guehenno, Brittany, France

• By July 1985, when The Clash delivered their electrifying live performance of "Safe European Home" at the Elexir Festival in Guehenno, France, they we... Read Full Description >

  By July 1985, when The Clash delivered their electrifying live performance of "Safe European Home" at the Elexir Festival in Guehenno, France, they were in a unique phase of their career. This was nearly a year after the release of their album *Combat Rock*, which had peaked their popularity with hits like "Rock the Casbah." *Combat Rock* was significant not only because it showcased their punk roots but also included more experimental sounds—blending elements of rock and reggae that reflected Joe Strummer's deep love for the genre. An interesting nugget to note is that, during this time, the band's lineup was shifting, with Mick Jones being less involved, which colored their live shows differently. Fans might have felt the energy of a band grappling with their identity while still embodying that raw, spirited vibe that made them legendary. The performance encapsulated this transitional moment, resonating with audacious political undertones that typified their music, prompting many to reflect on how the band influenced their understanding of not just music, but life's broader canvas.

The Clash - 'Brand New Cadillac' Live at Elexir Festival, Guehenno, France

Elexir Festival
Guehenno, France

• When The Clash took the stage at the Elexir Festival in Guehenno, France, on July 15, 1985, they were riding the waves of their dynamic career. Just a... Read Full Description >

  When The Clash took the stage at the Elexir Festival in Guehenno, France, on July 15, 1985, they were riding the waves of their dynamic career. Just a year prior, in 1984, they had released their album “Cut the Crap,” which, albeit met with mixed reactions, showcased their evolving sound as they dove deeper into the realms of rock and punk mixed with a touch of new wave. By that summer, The Clash was navigating a challenging period, with internal conflicts emerging, leading to turbulence within the band. This live performance of “Brand New Cadillac” captured the raw energy and spirit of their earlier work, while also reflecting the band's shift over the years. Interestingly, the song itself, originally by Vince Taylor, resonated not only with their punk roots but also with the remnants of their ambitious experimentation in music. It’s fascinating to think how a band so influential could still be pushing their boundaries, even amidst uncertainty.