London Calling - Pennie Smith (1979)
We've all seen this photograph. Even if you're not that into music, detest Punk, or have lived under a rock for the last 30-odd years - this is the image that defines Rock and Roll at its most violent and powerful moment.
The photograph nearly wasn't shot at all; Pennie Smith wasn't feeling up to another front row gig with the Punk rockers, but she changed her mind and the world of music was glad that she did. This particular gig, The Palladium in New York City on 21 September 1979 during the "Clash Take the Fifth" US tour, bassist Paul Simonon unleashed his frustration and anger on his bass when the gig was far from a success. One shot was all it took to capture Rock's appeal, and it is one of the reasons why it's included in my top 10. It's a simple photograph, luck had a part to play in the precise timing it required to capture the second before the bass got shattered, the smoky background plays a part in its "red mist" appeal, and the spotlight is focused on Simonon, so you can't help but focus on his bass-smashing antic!
A powerfull photograph - one that'll always be remembered. That's at least one great thing that came out of the Punk movement!
The photograph nearly wasn't shot at all; Pennie Smith wasn't feeling up to another front row gig with the Punk rockers, but she changed her mind and the world of music was glad that she did. This particular gig, The Palladium in New York City on 21 September 1979 during the "Clash Take the Fifth" US tour, bassist Paul Simonon unleashed his frustration and anger on his bass when the gig was far from a success. One shot was all it took to capture Rock's appeal, and it is one of the reasons why it's included in my top 10. It's a simple photograph, luck had a part to play in the precise timing it required to capture the second before the bass got shattered, the smoky background plays a part in its "red mist" appeal, and the spotlight is focused on Simonon, so you can't help but focus on his bass-smashing antic!
A powerfull photograph - one that'll always be remembered. That's at least one great thing that came out of the Punk movement!
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