984 Ramones - Too Tough to Die (1984)

984 Ramones - Too Tough to Die (1984)

Studio Album - Punk Rock



About the Act:

The Ramones were an American punk band that existed from 1974 to 1996. They were one of the most influential punk bands in the New York punk scene in the late 70s. They have been recognised in many lists as being of the most significant rock bands, well, ever.  

Unlike other punk bands who's style often included colourful dyed hair, the Ramones adopted long hair and leather jackets as a kind of uniform. Also, all members of the band adopted stage names with the surname "Ramone" even though they were not related. The "classic" line-up was Dee Dee Ramone, Joey Ramone, Tommy Ramone and Johnny Ramone, all of whom are now dead.  

Their music was categorised by fast beats, raw, simple rock and short, abrupt songs. Later, they diversified into more poppy music.

About the Album:

For the previous three albums, the Ramones had veered towards a more poppy sound, in an attempt to gain more fans. However, unhappy with this approach, this album was a return to the core punk sound they spearheaded in the late 70s. It was also the first with Ritchie Ramone on Drums - Tommy moved onto production for the album. 

My History with this Album:

None at all.

Review:

So in my first post of this block I pointed out that the Ramones seemed to be over-represented in this list. However, after doing some research on the band, it seems that they were in fact very influential and important, so I withdraw my objection.  I also withdraw the objection on the grounds that I enjoyed this album. I can generally be a bit sceptical about punk as a musical phenomenon, as it seemed to be more about style and attitude than about music. However, this album has merit. The songs are short and snappy, aggressive and energetic, but not scarily so. There is some variety of sound, but not a great deal. Most of the vocals are delivered by Joey Ramone, who has a bit of the Rock n Roll about his voice, or dare I say almost Rockabilly. Somehow this takes the edge off the aggression compared with the strong London accent of The Sex Pistols. The lyrics are generally on the theme of disaffected youth, not subtle, but to the point. It is surprisingly unsweary.

It's not particularly clever, musically very simple, but deceptively well-played. The overall feel is raw and energetic, and that's the appeal. It makes my head bob and my toe tap and makes me feel like a good old pogo. It would be great staying-awake-to-drive to music. This is when I like punk, when it combines energy with a certain immediate and in-the-moment (and at times even less serious) approach to life. Happy Punk.

7.5/10



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