In
1976, the iconic punk band The Ramones recorded their first album in under two weeks and on a
budget of $6400.00 dollars. Released in April of that year, the album
boldly introduced the Ramones to the world, and is now recognized widely as one
of the most important pop music albums ever recorded. The album was seminal in
launching punk music in the United States and the U.K., and sounds as fresh and
innovative today as it did 40 years ago.
In
honor of its 40th anniversary, Warner Brothers/Rhino has released a commemorative set that celebrates this ground-breaking album. The set includes
three CDs packed with rarities and outtakes, two live performances, and both a
remastered stereo and never before released mono version of the album. A vinyl
version of the mono mix is also included, and extensive liner notes, an essay
on the band, and rare photos round out the package. It’s a great way to learn
all about this seminal band and its four founding members, all of whom took on
the last name Ramone to symbolize their unity of sound and purpose: Jeffrey Hyman,
known as Joey (vocals); John Cummings, or Johnny (guitar), Doug Colvin, or Dee
Dee (bass); and Tommy Erdelyi, or Tommy (drums).
