Leave Home

slightly less primitive than the ramones' debut, leave home from 1977 is somehow more melodic, poppier, and heavier than its predecessor. 'glad to see you go' name-drops 'the passion' of charles manson, while the terrific 'commando' brings to mind a funnier mc5. but 'oh, oh, i love her so' is pure classic bubblegum pop and their first foray into the beach boys-inspired harmonies that would be used to greater effect on rocket to russia. the bruddahs even do a speeded-up version of 'california sun' to drive the point home. 'pinhead' gave birth to the 'gabba! gabba! hey!' rallying cry. this splendid remastered reissue includes the original artwork, superior sound, and excellent liner notes by heavy-metal ph.d. dr. donna gaines. also included is the band's august 1976 la debut show at the roxy theater featuring 16 cuts