Halfway to Sanity: Voivod and JG Thirlwell Reimagine Ramones’ “Zero Zero UFO”

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Legacy of the Ramones
4. Voivod and JG Thirlwell: An Unlikely Duo
5. Production and Unique Interpretations
6. Implications for the Punk and Metal Landscapes
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Canadian thrash-prog band Voivod partners with avant-garde artist JG Thirlwell to cover the Ramones' “Zero Zero UFO” for the upcoming compilation Best of Ramones Redux.
• The collaboration aims to revive and reinterpret a lesser-known track from the Ramones' discography, showcasing a unique sound departure from the original.
• The album, produced by Marc Urselli, features contributions from various artists, putting personal spins on their favorite Ramones songs.

Introduction

In the realm of punk and rock music, the Ramones stand as titans, their influence echoing through generations. Yet, not all their songs achieved equal acclaim – a reality evident in the obscurity of tracks like “Zero Zero UFO” from their 1989 album Brain Drain. Just as the Ramones faced challenges towards the end of the '80s, now a new collaboration aims to breathe fresh life into this lesser-known gem. Canadian band Voivod and avant-garde musician JG Thirlwell have teamed up to cover “Zero Zero UFO,” and their rendition promises a sound that is both fantastical and grounded in the progressive metal sphere. This article delves into the background of the Ramones, the evolution of “Zero Zero UFO,” and the implications of this new cover within the contemporary music landscape.

The Legacy of the Ramones

To fully appreciate the significance of Voivod and Thirlwell's cover, it is vital to consider the Ramones' legacy. Formed in 1974 in New York City, the band became known for its speedy songs, simple melodies, and catchy lyrics. They were among the first bands to bring punk rock to the mainstream and influenced countless musicians across various genres.

By the late 1980s, however, the Ramones were struggling to keep their footing amid changing musical landscapes populated by hardcore punk and the burgeoning grunge movement. Albums from this period, such as Too Tough to Die and Brain Drain, received lukewarm receptions from both fans and critics. Rolling Stone described Brain Drain as “eminently forgettable,” illustrating the band's declining momentum in the music scene.

The Story Behind “Zero Zero UFO”

“Zero Zero UFO,” a track buried within the Brain Drain lineup, is a unique blend of punk rock and science fiction themes, reflecting lead vocalist Joey Ramone's fascination with outer space. The song features jackhammer drums, a driving bassline, and Joey’s distinct vocal style, which desperately attempts to keep pace with the rising intensity of musical trends at the time.

Despite its initial obscurity, “Zero Zero UFO” maintained a niche following, especially among die-hard Ramones fans who often cite its quirky lyrics and infectious energy. The track's cosmic references resonate not only with fans of punk rock but also with science fiction enthusiasts, making it ripe for reinterpretation.

Voivod and JG Thirlwell: An Unlikely Duo

Voivod, formed in 1982, is celebrated for its experimental approach to metal, often fusing elements of thrash, progressive rock, and even jazz. Their unique sound has continually pushed musical boundaries, making them an influential force in their genre. JG Thirlwell, known for his avant-garde compositions and work under the moniker Foetus, brings a distinctive artistic vision to any project he engages with.

Collaboratively, Voivod and Thirlwell are poised to offer a radically different take on “Zero Zero UFO.” Describing the project, Voivod drummer Michel “Away” Langevin expressed his excitement about the opportunity to cover a song best known for its peculiarity: “I’ve always dreamed of playing ‘Zero Zero UFO.’ I was so excited about the opportunity that I might have played it a bit fast, making it challenging for [vocalist] Snake and Jim [Thirlwell] to fit every word in.”

This anticipation is shared among their fanbase, who are eager for a fresh perspective on a classic track that has long been overshadowed.

Production and Unique Interpretations

The task of breathing new life into “Zero Zero UFO” has been handed to Marc Urselli, an audio engineer renowned for crafting vibrant soundscapes, having worked with a plethora of artists spanning genres. His production expertise captures the intricacies of Voivod and Thirlwell's sound, enhancing the guttural intensity of their rendition.

The interpretation shifts from the straightforward rebellion typical of the Ramones to a more complex sonic architecture that merges metal with avant-garde sensibilities. Early reports hint at expectations of wild soundscapes, possibly incorporating actual UFO sound effects as a nod to the song's cosmic themes.

The Broader Album Context: Best of Ramones Redux

Voivod and Thirlwell’s cover is part of the larger compilation album Best of Ramones Redux, which collects various artists’ interpretations of popular Ramones tracks. This project encourages established and emerging artists to pay homage while also injecting their unique flair into the well-known songs.

Other notable contributions include:

1. Destructo Disk feat. Timo Ellis – “I Don’t Wanna Be Learned/I Don’t Wanna Be Tamed”
2. Impostor Cult feat. Amy Tung Barrysmith – “Pet Sematary”
3. Zeni Geva and Besvärjelsen – “You Should Never Have Opened That Door”

With each track, the collection showcases a diverse range of styles and interpretations, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Ramones while offering something fresh for both old and new fans alike.

Implications for the Punk and Metal Landscapes

The collaboration between Voivod and Thirlwell highlights a broader trend in music where classic punk and metal elements are reexamined and reinterpreted by diverse artists, showcasing how genres can blend and evolve. This not only serves to honor the original artists but invites a new generation of listeners to connect with their music.

As artists continuously push the boundaries of their genres, tracks that were once overlooked or dismissed gain new relevance. The experimental spirit embodied in Voivod and Thirlwell's rendition could pave the way for a greater appreciation of Ramones' less celebrated music, potentially inspiring future creators looking to invoke nostalgia while infusing their unique signatures.

Conclusion

Voivod and JG Thirlwell's engagement with “Zero Zero UFO” presents an exciting opportunity for both artists and listeners. Their unique approach not only revitalizes a forgotten Ramones classic but also exemplifies the ongoing evolution within the world of punk and heavy music. As the Best of Ramones Redux gears up for release, it stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of the Ramones' work and the possibility for innovative reinterpretation across time and genres.

FAQ

What is Best of Ramones Redux?

Best of Ramones Redux is a compilation album featuring various artists covering tracks originally by the Ramones, offering reinterpretations that highlight the band's impact on music.

Why is “Zero Zero UFO” significant?

“Zero Zero UFO” is a lesser-known track from the Ramones' Brain Drain album, notable for its quirky lyrics and its mid-tier reception at a time when the Ramones were losing mainstream appeal.

Who are Voivod and JG Thirlwell?

Voivod is a Canadian thrash-prog metal band known for its experimental approach, while JG Thirlwell (Foetus) is an avant-garde artist recognized for his eclectic style and innovative compositions.

How does Voivod’s version of “Zero Zero UFO” differ from the original?

The new version incorporates more complex soundscapes and avant-garde elements, diverging from the straightforward punk rock aesthetic of the original, thus presenting a more progressive interpretation.

Will this project affect the perception of the Ramones?

By reviving and reinterpreting lesser-known tracks, artists like Voivod and Thirlwell may foster new admiration for the Ramones’ full catalog, inviting both new fans and older audiences to explore their underrated works.