About this album
Where they were
Released in 1997, 'Have a Ball' was the debut album from Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, a supergroup formed by members of other notable punk bands. At this point, the band was establishing its unique niche of covering beloved songs with a punk rock flair, paving the way for subsequent releases that would further solidify their reputation in the punk scene.
Why it matters
'Have a Ball' garnered significant attention for its inventive covers, helping to popularize the concept of punk cover albums. The album's tracks, such as 'Uptown Girl,' showcased how punk could reinterpret mainstream hits, influencing a wave of similar projects within the genre.
Essential tracks
- "Uptown Girl" — This cover transforms Billy Joel's pop classic into a spirited punk anthem, encapsulating the band's playful style.
- "Sweet Caroline" — The rendition injects lively energy into Neil Diamond's classic, demonstrating the band's knack for reimagining familiar tunes.
- "Leaving on a Jet Plane" — The punk treatment of this folk standard adds an unexpected urgency to a traditionally sentimental song, exemplifying the band's unique approach.
- "Danny’s Song" — Their version brings an upbeat tempo to Loggins’ heartfelt ballad, showcasing how they can turn emotional songs into lively punk rock.
Release Date
January 1, 1997
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Danny’s Song 2:09
- 2 Leaving on a Jet Plane 2:32
- 3 Me & Julio Down by the Schoolyard 2:42
- 4 One Tin Soldier 2:00
- 5 Uptown Girl 2:21
- 6 I Am a Rock 2:04
- 7 Sweet Caroline 2:53
- 8 Seasons in the Sun 2:27
- 9 Fire and Rain 1:23
- 10 Nobody Does It Better 2:28
- 11 Mandy 2:26
- 12 Rocket Man 3:17
