The Clash, Studio Albums.

The Clash, 1977
The Clash's first album was a self titled album released 1977 in the U.K. and in 1979 with an altered track listing in the U.S., now available in both U.K. and U.S. versions. Either is essential listening. The U.S. version includes some of their best early work, but the U.K. version coupled with The Singles CD will give you the best of both worlds and is definitely the way to go.

Give 'em Enough Rope, 1978
An album very much in the same vein as their self titled debut, Give 'em Enough Rope was the first Clash release in the U.S. This album is not nearly as good or as essential as their debut, although it is a good album. The album does contains hints at what was to come from the band.

London Calling, 1979
London Calling was a double album that really progressed the band by leaps and bounds, even though it had only been two years since their firs album. Containing some of their best and most distinct work, London Calling is great even for those that aren't interested in the raw punk roots of the Clash or in the pop experimentation that was to come.

Sandinista!, 1980
A year after the progressive London Calling, The Clash released their most ambitious album, Sandinista. A huge 144 minute triple album, the band spent most of a year recording it London, New York, Jamaica and Manchester. Sandinista is a very diverse and experimental album. It is not for everybody, but very rewarding for those that stick with it.

Combat Rock, 1982
A more straightforward album, Combat Rock is often considered the last proper Clash album. Their most successful album, Combat Rock features both Should I Stay or Should I Go and Rock The Casbah. A good enough attempt, but not nearly as important as some of their earlier work.

Cut The Crap, 1985
Often ignored by both the band and it's fans, Cut The Crap came at the end of The Clash's career. The album was made after Mick Jones and Topper Headon had left the band. Cut the Crap is essential only for the completist.