Green Day’s sophomore album found the band further tightening their sound. The lineup was now solidified with Tre Cool cementing his place on drums, Mike Drint on bass, and Billie Joe Armstrong delivering his trademark snotty voice and straightforward guitar riffs. Kerplunk! was the perfect test run for the trio’s major label pop punk sound. Subsequent albums like Dookie would open doors for many of the bands that would follow in Green Day’s wake. Dirnt and Cool’s ultra tight rhythm section delivered guitar-less breaks that would go on to define the band’s sound. The album is filled with catchy choruses and yearning lyrics. Kerplunk! offers plenty to like about the band and this special edition includes the Sweet Children EP on a separate 7″.

• black vinyl pressing, includes the 1990 Sweet Children EP on bonus 7-inch
• includes printed insert
• original release year: 1991
• music label: Reprise 2024

reviewed by Hank Ohs 01/2015