Tune du Jour: “The KKK Took My Baby Away” – The Ramones
THE CLASH of Cover Tunes: Anti-Flag vs. Beatnick Termites vs. Manic Hispanic
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Broccoli, Broccoli, Broccoli, Broccoli!
All the Girls are in Love With Me, I’m a Teenage Broccoli
The Original
The Ramones:
THE CLASH of Cover Tunes
Anti-Flag vs. Beatnick Termites vs. Manic Hispanic
Anti-Flag (and fans):
Beatnick Termites:
Manic Hispanic:
Manic Hispanic is a farcical Chicano punk band comprised of current and former members of Californian punk bands the Adolescents, The Grabbers, Punk Rock Karaoke, The X-Members, 22 Jacks, Final Conflict, Agent Orange, Death by Stereo and The Cadillac Tramps. Apparently all, or at least many, of the members were to some extent afoul of the law as the band was formed on the advice of a probation officer in order to keep the guys out of further trouble.
Manic Hispanic plays punk standards, altering the lyrics to reflect the perspective of disadvantaged Hispanics. Their songs aim to be comical while also drawing attention to real structural difficulties that Hispanics have to cope with on a day-to-day basis. A few characteristics that typify Manic Hispanic’s creations are that the lyrics are going to be witty; the songs are going to be played with ample expertise; and the songs they select to parody are going to be among the best of the punk/hardcore genre.
The I.N.S. Took My Novia Away:
SPACE
Oh the disharmony! Much like Harlan County there are no neutrals here. It is your solemn responsibility to decide which cover song prevails. In other words … Which Side Are You On?!!?
Disclaimer: Votes cast from Florida may or may not be counted.
cover me impressed 
Great original and 3 very good covers. In some ways I think I liked the Beatnick Termites the best. But I’m going to go with Manic Hispanic because of the humor factor, which is a crucial aspect of this song. Back in 1981 just the chorus alone had me cracking up. But in the 20th century USA it needs to be updated to maintain the same humor effect. “The I.N.S. Took My Novia Away.” (Could this be the theme song of the Trump campaign?)
A fun song from an excellent Ramones album. As it happens, I’m about 40 pages into “Commando”, Johnny Ramone’s autobiography. Marky’s memoir was much better. Johnny was definitely kind of a dick. Anyway, Manic Hispanic’s version is funny, but musically, The Beatnik Termites get this one. As for Trump, a more apt title would be “The KKK Makes Up Most of My Base”.
The Beatnick Termites’ cover is great. And I am a big fan of Manic Hispanic, who likewise (and I would also say predictably) knocked out a terrific satire. But my vote in this very close selection process goes to Anti-Flag. Love the acoustical take on the song and the unbridled enthusiasm of the kid on the far right puts this version over the top!
Hilarious version by Manic Hispanic had to be rewarded with a vote. Three worthy covers, however.
Good catchy song in the first place; I’d like to hear it done by the 1965 Beach Boys.
I’d like to hear this done by Celine Dion.
Was watching the move CBGB the other night … favorite line, Hilly thoughtfully studying the Ramones after their initial raucous audition,,, they slouch together, awkwardly awaiting his decision, finally …”Nobody is gonna like you guys …. but i’ll give it a shot”
That film received some mediocre reviews but I really enjoyed it.