SPILL BOOK REVIEW: PAT GILBERT – PASSION IS A FASHION: THE REAL STORY OF THE CLASH

PAT GILBERT – PASSION IS A FASHION: THE REAL STORY OF THE CLASH

AURUM/QUARTO GROUP

BOOK REVIEW BY AARON BADGLEY

Pat Gilbert’s Passion Is A Fashion: The Real Story of The Clash has stood out from other bios on The Clash since it was first released in 2004. First and foremost, he was able to interview all the members of the band, which allows them to tell their story, but also he had a great deal of insight into the band and their music. This new expanded and reworked edition goes a bit deeper into the story of the band, with new updated information. What makes this book very readable and enjoyable is the history that Gilbert writes about each member. Just how did their personal lives growing up impact their eventual sound?

And this is where the title Passion Is A Fashion is derived. It is Gilbert’s points or arguments, that is what set The Clash apart from other ‘punk’ and ‘post-punk’ bands was their collective passion. Passion for music, politics, and ‘the message’. The Clash did not embrace the hippie notion of love, but they did embrace unity and world peace.

For the record, The Clash for the majority of the band’s existence consisted of Joe Strummer (rhythm guitar, vocals),  Mick Jones (lead guitar, vocals), Paul Simonon (bass) and Nicky “Topper” Headon (drums). Throughout the years there were a few drummers, and of course the band tried to carry on after Jones left. It is all explained in the book. It is a fascinating to see The Clash grow from a punk band to embracing dance music to their eventual worldwide success. Besides talking with the members of the band, Gilbert has interviewed people who were involved with The Clash to give a very well-rounded story and vision of the band.

Passion Is A Fashion: The Real Story of The Clash is a very readable book. It is well written, and a fascinating read. Gilbert manages to include a great deal of tension in the text, along with some very funny moments involving the band. They were serious about their music and their message but were not above a good laugh. Passion Is A Fashion: The Real Story of The Clash is an excellent look at the band and their history. He does include a post-Clash section, which is equally interesting, including The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and the inevitable question of ‘what might have been.’ Strummer, sadly, passed away before the induction.

Passion Is A Fashion: The Real Story of The Clash is highly recommended for fans of The Clash, and even though you may think you know the story, you will learn a great deal from this book.

ISBN-10: 1805704133
ISBN-13:‎ 978-1805704133

PURCHASE PASSION IS A FASHION – THE REAL STORY OF THE CLASH VIA