It has been 30 years since The Clash released one of the most influential and diverse punk/rock albums of all time. “London Calling,” their third studio album, is famous for its big hit with the same title. While London Calling is indeed one of The Clash’s biggest hits and is, in my opinion, in the top 3 of greatest punk songs, I thought we could focus on a heavily underrated song which features Joe Strummer’s lyrics but the soft voice of Mick Jones (not Foreigner’s guitarist).
“Lost in the Supermarket” is an unconventional punk song. Yet, do not be misguided, it still is associated with the punk era. It appears deep in London Calling as the eight song on the track listing. The song’s repetitive croon of the line “guaranteed personality” over lyrics describing disillusionment caused by the increased commercialism of the world (which has just increased more) displays Strummer’s lyrical prowess. Strummer is correct in his assumption that the youth (which included him at one point) is certainly swayed by the consumer world toward an addling labyrinth of products and styles. Hence, “Lost in the Supermarket” which just explains it best.
Check out the song:

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