Covers, Chaos and Crowd Sing-Alongs, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes Thrill Perth, Australia.

November 13th, 2024

When Me First and the Gimme Gimmes get on the stage, you know you’re in for a wild ride. A “problematic” ride as lead singer Spike Slawson described it pre-show.

The punk supergroup, known for their unique blend of high-energy covers of pop classics, delivered yet another high energy, unforgettable performance that had the crowd rowdy from the very first note.

The magnificent Astor Theatre in Mount Lawely played host to the eager Gimme Gimme punters packing the GA and the terraced seats, many of whom were decked out in punk band shirts, tatts, and nostalgic excitement that filled the theatre.

Hit after hit, literally, the Gimme Gimmes had the crowd up and about.  “Sloop John B” was a doozy of a rendition and was received well. “Rocketman” and “Jolene” also (somehow?) found their way into sing-along of the night.  The setlist contrived all genres and involved all generations- a full-on celebration of fun, anarchy, and irreverence.

The band, as always, is a supergroup of punk legends. Tonight’s show featuring the lineup of:

Spike Slawson (SWINGIN’ UTTERS)

CJ Ramone (THE RAMONES)

Jon Wickersham (SOCIAL DISTORTION)

Jake Kiley (STRUNG OUT) 

Dave Hidalgo Jr. (SOCIAL DISTORTION)

These fellas are seasoned pros, and it shows. Their stage presence is electric; they’re not just playing music, they’re performing it with a level of exuberance that feels contagious. Whether it was their rollicking version of “Over the Rainbow” or a punked-up rendition of “Me and Julio down by the schoolyard,” every song was delivered with both precision and a sense of humor that made it clear: this isn’t just about playing the tunes—it’s about flipping them on their head and making them your own.

The crowd were 100 percent lapping it up, moshing, dancing and singing along to every cover. Between songs, Spike was great at keeping the energy high with sarcastic banter, a few well-placed jabs, and plenty of laughs. It’s part of the charm of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes—they never take themselves too seriously, but the music and theatrics is always top-tier.

As the night drew to a close with their iconic cover of “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” the crowd went wild, not one person not singing along. There’s a certain magic in seeing a band so capable of taking something as beloved as John Denver’s classic and turning it into a full-throttle punk anthem. 

All in all, this was a gig that reminded everyone why Me First and the Gimme Gimmes are one of the most fun bands touring today. It’s clear they’ve mastered the art of blending humor and tunes, If they’re coming to your town or city, don’t hesitate—this is one party you won’t want to miss.