The Clash
Combat Rock · 1982
Amp settings (as recorded)
The recording
The song was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York during late 1981. Unlike most Clash songs, it was largely composed by drummer Topper Headon, who recorded the initial piano, bass, and drum parts alone. Mick Jones and Joe Strummer later added guitar overdubs and backing vocals. The final production was polished by Glyn Johns to suit a commercial, radio-friendly sound, which created tension within the band.
Tuning
StandardRecording Signal Chain · 4 items
Telecaster
Fender
Lead/Rhythm
Utilized for bright, punchy attack.
Phase 100
MXR
Modulation
Commonly used by Jones for textural depth.
RE-201 Space Echo
Roland
Delay
Provided characteristic slapback echoes.
Mark II
Mesa/Boogie
Amplification
Mick Jones's primary amp during the Combat Rock sessions.
Tone Characteristics
ToneTwin