Hello and welcome to the Rock n Coasters podcast, I am one of your hosts, Michele Forto. This year we are doing something new we are going to talk about the top rock albums of the year and share some cool facts from back in time. These short, bite-sized episodes should be perfect for a quick listen and, who knows, just might spur your interest in checking out some new tunes.
1979. It is hard to believe that we are through the decade of the 1970’s and what a decade it was. I remember it just like it was yesterday including Toughskins, saddle oxfords and bellbottoms. Did you know that the Sony Walkman was released this year. It truly did change music forever.
The Ford’s Pinto automobile design allowed its fuel tank to be easily damaged in the event of a rear-end collision which sometimes resulted in deadly fires and explosions. It was first noticed by Ford in 1971 tests.
Sid Vicious died in 1979 of a heroin overdose. If you recall, we just talked about his ground-breaking album as the top album on last week’s podcast.
The Quotes
“Nothing comes between me and my Calvins.”
– Brooke Shields, for Calvin Klein
“Have a Coke and smile.”
-Coca-Coca
Let’s jump into the top rock album of the year.
1979: The Clash, ‘London Calling’
Though rooted in punk, with 1979’s ‘London Calling‘ The Clash delivered arguably their most eclectic and most complete studio album. There’s a little something for everyone with elements of soul, reggae, and R&B seeping into the music, as well. The album’s opening title track had the snarl and attitude fans had come to expect, while the album-closing hidden track “Train in Vain” was more a straight-up rocker with a catchy radio quality. In between, there was the reggae-tinged “Rudie Can’t Fail,” the upbeat “Spanish Bombs,” the infectious “Clampdown” and the swaying beats of “Guns of Brixton” among other standout moments. Simply put, this was a band on the top of their game, showing exactly what they could tackle their varied influences. This platinum-selling critically-hailed classic is deserving of every accolade coming its way.
So, guys, what do you think? Do you like this series? Please let us know in the comments and on our social channels, just search Rock n Coasters podcast. Also, do us a favor and hit that subscribe button. One more thing watch your podcast feed on Thursdays as we will do the same format for the top metal albums too.
Oh, one last bit of trivia, Etan Patz was the 1st missing child to have their picture on a milk carton in 1979 and that the murderer wasn’t caught till 2012. And on that note, we would love for you to support our show. Please head over to patreon.com/firstpawmedia and sign up today and you will get access to behind-the-scenes content, exclusive merch and more.
I am your host, Michele Forto, see you next time.