Joe Strummer - Joe Strummer 001 [Ignition Records]

Put on the circuit via Ignition Records on September 28th, 2k18 is "Joe Strummer 001", a new 2CD / 4xLP box set documenting the works of The Clash's Joe Strummer beyond his musings and creative works within this legendary, highly influential band outfit. With 20 rare versions, early works and remasters on CD1 plus 12 previously unheard, unreleased recordings taken from the artists vast 20.000+ tracks archive uncovered after his passing in 2002 on the second one the range covered on the first disc varies from classic, fast-paced, revolutionary Rock'n'Roll tunes like 1975s "Letsagetabitarockin" recorded with The 101ers and more of Surf-oriented sound of the same band found in the follow up "Keys To Your Heart", brings forth massive Stadium Rock anthem's like Joe Strummer's solo effort "Love Kills", obvious, laid back Reggae-influences in his own "Ride Your Donkey" and even brings on some cheesy Afro-Pop / World Music vibes in Radar's 1995 recording of "Sand Paper Blues". Furthermore Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros' "Yalla Yalla" from 1999 seemingly draws influences from bands like Massive Attack, Tricky and others in their electronic backing, deep basslines and floating modulations whereas 1997's "Generations" by Electric Dog House meanders in between classic Folk and Americana, finally goes deep into bluesy, solemn areas with the cinematic "Minstrel Boy" by Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros and even covers Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" alongside legendary late Johnny Cash in the following. Diving into rare unreleased material on disc 2 we see "Czechoslovak Song / Where Is England" by Strummer, Simonon & Howard being on a heavy, Dub-infused tip reminiscent of Adrian Sherwood's work at the controls, "Pouring Rain" by the same artist combo evokes distant memories of Bruce Springsteen, "Crying On 23rd" by The Soothsayers brings forth the most classic Blues vibe on this collection, the solo cut "The Cool Impossible" is as cool as things can get and "London Is Burning" by Joe Strummer & The Mescaleros unfolds as a charming sing-along cut with a well-seductive electronic bass and drum foundation backing. Defo a collectors item this, revealing quite a bit of Joe Strummer's immense musical range to both fans, music historians and even the occasional The Clash-followers. Check.