"Rocket to Russia" is the third studio album by the American punk rock band Ramones, released on November 4, 1977, through Sire Records. It marks the last album featuring original drummer Tommy Ramone, who departed the band in 1978 to focus on production.
The album's roots can be traced to the summer of 1977, coinciding with the release of the single "Sheena Is a Punk Rocker." This period was a high point for punk rock, as many bands received recording contracts, leading to a burgeoning underground scene in New York City. With a significantly larger budget of $25,000 to $30,000 from Sire, the Ramones prioritized production quality over recording costs. The recording sessions began on August 21, 1977, at Mediasound Studios in Manhattan.
The band's desire to outshine contemporaries like the Sex Pistols influenced the album's production, with guitarist Johnny Ramone emphasizing the need for superior sound. The final product was largely engineered by Ed Stasium, who played a crucial role despite the formal credits listing Tony Bongiovi and Tommy Ramone as producers.
The album cover, directed by John Gillespie, features illustrations by John Holmstrom, including a military-themed back cover depicting a "pinhead" character on a rocket to Russia. The inner sleeve includes cartoon illustrations related to the songs' themes.
Rocket to Russia showcases a mix of surf rock and punk, characterized by humor and a more polished sound than earlier albums. The lyrics often incorporate black comedy, exploring themes like mental disorders and dysfunctional family dynamics. The album includes tracks like "Cretin Hop," "Rockaway Beach," and "Sheena Is a Punk Rocker," with the latter being particularly notable for capturing the spirit of the punk scene.
While Rocket to Russia received positive critical acclaim for its production and variety, it did not achieve the commercial success the band anticipated, peaking at number 49 on the Billboard 200. Critics praised its matured sound and hooks, and the album was later ranked as one of the greatest albums of all time by publications like Rolling Stone.
Overall, Rocket to Russia solidified the Ramones' place in punk rock history, combining catchy melodies with irreverent lyrics, setting a template for future punk bands.
