Jimmy Jazz - The Clash

If you've had the pleasure of hanging out with me before, I've almost definitely put this song on. It's the perfect song for any occasion. Relaxed but punchy, catchy but not overbearing. The mood is so conducive to having a good time. It never fails to put a smile on my face. Joe Strummer is just having fun on it, half singing half talking, sometimes devolving into just mumbling inaudibly. It's the kind of music that just makes you feel free from the world around you, just in the moment and enjoying life. 

In the context of the album, it also works really well as a break from the intensity of some of the other songs. It shows that The Clash have a very large range and shouldn't be pigeonholed as a traditional punk band. 

There are lots of interesting instrumental breaks throughout with whistling, guitar and sax interludes. It's a jam session track with everyone just noodling around, but still holding down a body-moving groove. The walking bass and drums are so loose but so tight at the same time. You can hear that they are not under any pressure, just playing what sounds good, and because the band is so connected and talented it always works out.

It's hard to imagine a day in the park or a board game night or a night of barbecuing without this masterpiece. It's the glue that holds together every playlist I make.