I agree... I was never really into The Clash, so never bought an album. Funny, that I checked out one of their CD's at the library several weeks ago on impulse - Now I like reggae and I appreciate Ska bands like The Specials, so I thought maybe the 80's were a long time ago and I never really listened to any of The Clash songs that were not on the airwaves, so maybe I should give another listen. I came to the same conclusion that they are boring - much too contrived with no soul. I don't hate their music, but it does nothing for me. However, Ultravox did rock! Who cares whether or not such and such a band is political or not. Bob Marley was political, yet he spoke from his heart and was real.There are many good bands that aren't the least bit political. I think it all depends upon whether or not it is contrived. Really, this whole "punk" business is over analized - Who fits what mold. What I like about Richard is he does not "fit" a mold and was real.