Joey Ramone was undoubtedly a major influence on a lot of today's hard rock and heavy metal acts. He and the rest of the Ramones were responsible for starting what would become known as Punk Rock: a short, fast and furious style of music where the songs were simplistic in structure but had catchy melodies. The songs were over before you knew it. Some people nick named it "rock aerobics" since the music was so energetic that one could work out to it. Joey mastered this formula. Before his untimely death in April of 2001, Joey was working on what would be his first and only solo project. With help from various musicians including Misfits bass player Jerry Only and drummer Dr. Chud, Joey left us with a memorable, destined to become a classic "Don't Worry About Me".

"Don't Worry About Me" is a mix of punk rock pop that is at times reminiscent of older Ramones and more mainstream 60's garage rock. The production is excellent; crisp and clear. The opening track is a cover of Louis Armstrong's "What A Wonderful World". Joey really makes this track sound like his own. It's fast and upbeat. Joey and the rest of the Ramones had a great knack for making any songs from the 50's or 60's sound as if they wrote them themselves. Unless someone told you it was a cover you'd never know.

"Stop Thinking About It", "Mr. Punchy" and "Maria Bartiromo" are songs that could have easily fit on any Ramones album. All contain choruses with hooks, fat guitar power chords, a tight rhythm section of bass and drums and Joey's trademark whine.

Joey seemed to give it his all on this album. The song "I Got Knocked Down (But I'll Get Up)" reflects his will to live: "sitting in a hospital bed/I want my life/it really sucks". He knew the end was near, but he wanted to go down fighting.

It's only fitting that the album closes with the title track "Don't Worry About Me". This song is an indication that the music would live on and take care of all those that loved Joey and the songs he created.

As of late there's been a lot of buzz going around regarding a Ramones tribute album. Green Day, Marilyn Manson, Motorhead and Billy Corgan were just some of the acts rumored to contribute songs. I'm glad that there are a number of rock and metal musicians that realize just how important Joey and the Ramones music was.