We're A Happy Family - A Tribute To The Ramones
It was inevitable that a glut ofRamonestribute albums would follow the passing ofJoeyandDee Dee Ramone. The 17-song-strongWe're a Happy Familythankfully escapes the dubious tribute-album ghetto. It's no surprise that Ramones descendents likeGreen Day,Rancid, and theOffspringstick close to the tired and true, while headbanger James Hetfield makes "53rd & 3rd" sound like aMetallicasong. But the standouts on the disc are the efforts where artists go off the rails.Pete Yornturns in a yearning version of "I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend," whileTom Waitsgoes the ghoulish route on "The Return of Jackie and Judy."Kissget the best-in-show nod for their anthemic "Do You Remember Rock & Roll Radio," which is odd given that the Ramones were formed ostensibly as a reaction against arena rockers like Kiss. Don't miss the final hidden track, a scary gem by theChili Peppers'John Frusciante.--Jaan Uhelszki