About this album

Sound: "Raw energy and thunderous riffs collide with catchy hooks and an irreverent attitude throughout this punk rock landmark."

Where they were

Released in 1979, 'It's Alive' captures the Ramones at a pivotal moment following their 1976 self-titled debut and subsequent albums. This live album, recorded at the Rainbow Theatre in London, showcases their explosive stage presence and solidifies their influence on the burgeoning punk scene. It marked a transition as they began to gain international recognition, laying the groundwork for future generations of punk bands.

Why it matters

'It's Alive' is significant not only for its energetic performances but also for being one of the first live punk albums to achieve commercial success. It reached number 6 on the UK Albums Chart, demonstrating the Ramones' growing popularity in Europe and influencing countless punk and rock artists that followed.

Essential tracks

  • "Blitzkrieg Bop" — This track's infectious chant of 'Hey! Ho! Let's go!' became an anthem for punk rock, symbolizing the genre's rebellious spirit.
  • "Sheena Is a Punk Rocker" — As a quintessential Ramones song, it encapsulates their playful take on youth culture and punk identity, highlighting their signature sound.
  • "I Wanna Be Well" — This track combines catchy melodies with introspective lyrics, showcasing the band's ability to balance humor with deeper themes.

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Rockaway Beach 2:24
  2. 2 Teenage Lobotomy 1:54
  3. 3 Blitzkrieg Bop 2:05
  4. 4 I Wanna Be Well 2:23
  5. 5 Glad to See You Go 1:51
  6. 6 Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment 1:37
  7. 7 You're Gonna Kill That Girl 2:37
  8. 8 I Don't Care 1:46
  9. 9 Sheena Is a Punk Rocker 2:16
  10. 10 Havana Affair 1:34
  11. 11 Commando 1:39
  12. 12 Here Today, Gone Tomorrow 2:54
  13. 13 Surfin' Bird 2:20
  14. 14 Cretin Hop 1:58
  15. 15 Listen to My Heart 1:40
  16. 16 California Sun 1:45
  17. 17 I Don't Wanna Walk Around With You 1:24
  18. 18 Pinhead 2:45
  19. 19 Do You Wanna Dance? 1:39
  20. 20 Chainsaw 1:28
  21. 21 Today Your Love, Tomorrow the World 2:05
  22. 22 I Wanna Be a Good Boy 2:10
  23. 23 Judy Is a Punk 1:13
  24. 24 Suzy Is a Headbanger 1:53
  25. 25 Let's Dance 2:03
  26. 26 Oh Oh I Love Her So 1:39
  27. 27 Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue 1:18
  28. 28 We're a Happy Family 2:05