X-Ray Style (w. Joe Strummer)

Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros' song "X-Ray Style" is a vivid exploration of urban life, societal disillusionment, and the quest for authenticity. The lyrics paint a picture of a bustling cityscape filled with diverse characters, from "tickertape kings" to "juveniles," all navigating the complexities of modern existence. Strummer's plea for direction and connection, as he asks, "Will anybody tell me which way to go?" and "Will anybody come back on the c.b. radio," underscores a sense of isolation and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.

The song is rich with metaphors and cultural references that deepen its impact. Strummer counts "the stars and the telegraph poles," symbols of hope and communication, yet laments the harshness of life, especially when observing "all the little children running in the backyard." This juxtaposition highlights the innocence and potential of youth against the backdrop of a world that can be unforgiving. The mention of a "Mississippi gourd with a sub-Saharan song" and the "financial district sun" connects disparate parts of the world, emphasizing the universal nature of human struggle and aspiration.

Strummer's desire to "live and dance awhile" amidst the harsh realities of life is a recurring theme. He references rockabilly icon Eddie Cochran and the blues, genres that historically express resilience and rebellion. The line "You can't pull a hold-up with a be-bop gun" critiques the superficiality and heartlessness of some modern lives. The song's title, "X-Ray Style," suggests a need to see beyond the surface, to find genuine, unfiltered experiences in a world often clouded by pretense. Strummer's call for "rock art that don't come in a vial" is a yearning for pure, unadulterated expression, free from the commodification that plagues much of contemporary culture.