Album Cover Video:
“Police and Thieves” was originally recorded by reggae artist Junior Mervin in 1976:
You may recall the AllMusic.com claim that “(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais” was the first song to combine punk and reggae. Perhaps that should be amended to mention that “Hammersmith” was the first original punk/reggae hybrid, because this cover predated it. Apparently, Jones’ use of the guitar to help compliment the bass beat in this tune was somewhat revolutionary.
One of the things I’ve always digged about The Clash is that they were always willing to break stylistic ground. From their very first album, which was mostly straight forward punk, they were already pushing at the constraints of punk as a music form.
This one sounds more like a true reggae infused rock song. It makes me think of the Caribbean Posse that plays true reggae songs as well as reggae covers of Rock and Pop, Michael Jackson included.
Just to show their versatility, one Bike Week a caught one of their shows where they flawlessly performed Classic Rock from Santana to Big Brother and the Holding Company under the Moniker, The Ocean Deck Band.
So, kudos to The Clash for having the balls to show their versatility!!