The Clash - Combat Rock

Combat Rock is the fifth studio album by British punk rock band The Clash, originally released in May 1982 via CBS and Epic Records.

The Clash formed in 1976 as part of the original wave of British punk. Along with punk, their music incorporated elements of reggae, ska and rockabilly. For most of their recording career The Clash consisted of Joe Strummer (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Mick Jones (lead guitar, lead vocals), Paul Simonon (bass, vocals) and Nicky "Topper" Headon (drums, percussion). Headon left the group in 1982, and internal friction led to Jones's departure the following year. The group continued with new members, but finally disbanded in early 1986.

The Clash achieved commercial success in the United Kingdom with the release of their self-titled debut album in 1977. Their third album, London Calling, earned them popularity in the United States. It was declared the best album of the 1980s a decade later by Rolling Stone Magazine. In 1982 they reached new heights of success with the release of Combat Rock. Their final album, Cut The Crap, was released in 1985.

The Clash's politicised lyrics, musical experimentation, and rebellious attitude had a far-reaching influence on rock, and alternative rock in particular. They became widely referred to as "The Only Band That Matters", originally a promotional slogan introduced by the group's record label. In January 2003, shortly after the death of Joe Strummer, the band - including original drummer Terry Chimes - were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In 2004, Rolling Stone Magazine ranked The Clash number 28 on their list of the 100 greatest artists of all time.

Combat Rock is the bands best selling album, being certified double platinum in the United States. It contains two of the Clash's most popular songs, the singles "Rock The Casbah" and "Should I Stay Or Should I Go".

Combat Rock is the last Clash album featuring the bands classic line-up.

The album reached #2 on the UK albums chart and #7 on the US Billboard Pop albums chart.

This album is a 2013 reissue on 180 gram audiophile vinyl with a printed inner sleeve, printed insert and remastered audio, pressed in Europe via Music On Vinyl.