About this album
Where they were
Released in 1999, 'Are a Drag' was Me First and the Gimme Gimmes' fourth studio album, following their 1997 release 'So Long and Thanks for All the Shoes'. At this point, the band had solidified its unique niche within punk rock by transforming beloved show tunes into upbeat anthems, establishing themselves as a go-to act for genre-blending covers.
Why it matters
'Are a Drag' is significant for its playful approach to covering musical theater songs, which introduced punk audiences to Broadway classics. The album received positive reviews and helped expand the band's fanbase beyond punk rock circles, showcasing their ability to bridge different musical worlds.
Essential tracks
- "Over the Rainbow" — This opening track sets the tone with a frenetic energy that reinvents the classic tune into a punk anthem.
- "Don’t Cry for Me Argentina" — The band's rendition of this iconic song captures both humor and heart, exemplifying their knack for transforming theatrical ballads into punk expressions.
- "Science Fiction Double Feature" — This track showcases the group's ability to merge campy nostalgia with vibrant energy, making it a standout cover that resonates with fans of both genres.
- "Summertime" — Their punk version injects fresh life into this classic piece, demonstrating how they can make an old standard feel relevant and exciting.
Release Date
January 1, 1999
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 Over the Rainbow 1:31
- 2 Don’t Cry for Me Argentina 2:29
- 3 Science Fiction Double Feature 2:34
- 4 Summertime 2:09
- 5 Favorite Things 1:52
- 6 Rainbow Connection 2:18
- 7 Phantom of the Opera Song 1:45
- 8 I Sing the Body Electric 1:43
- 9 It’s Raining on Prom Night 2:56
- 10 Tomorrow 1:30
- 11 What I Did for Love 1:46
- 12 Cabaret 3:21
