Its Alive was the first commercially released live album by American Punk Rock pioneers The Ramones. The album was recorded at the Rainbow Theatre in London on Dec 31, 1977 and draws from the groups first three studio albums. Four concerts were recorded on this tour, but this one was chosen on the basis of the fierce reaction from the audience, who hurled ten rows of seats at the stage after the concert concluded. Released as a double LP in 1979, this was the final album that featured all four original members of the group together. Includes iconic tunes such as Rockaway Beach, Blitzkrieg Bop Sheena is a Punk Rocker and covers of surf rock standards California Sun and Surfin Bird. Recently remastered, this record is cut loud for a 33pm pressing, enhancing the fidelity of these blistering performances beyond the previous CD remasters. Packaged in a gatefold sleeve featuring photos from the gig.

• black double vinyl pressing
• gatefold sleeve
• music label: Warner Brothers 2020

reviewed by BYRON MAIDEN02/2020