what made the clash last was their huge amount of talent. they didn't stay with "punk" style entirely because they could go beyond that. over the years, ska, reggae, soul, r&b, jazz, rap, funk, and even what you would call new wave joined their repertoire. not only did this show off their copious and diverse talents, but widely expanded their fanbase by inviting fans of all different styles to listen to their favored style, and then to everything else the clash could do. you can praise "old-school clash" all you want, but don't disregard the enormity of everything after.
what made the clash last was their huge amount of talent. they didn't stay with "punk" style entirely because they could go beyond that. over the years, ska, reggae, soul, r&b, jazz, rap, funk, and even what you would call new wave joined their repertoire. not only did this show off their copious and diverse talents, but widely expanded their fanbase by inviting fans of all different styles to listen to their favored style, and then to everything else the clash could do. you can praise "old-school clash" all you want, but don't disregard the enormity of everything after.