Road to Ruin (Ramones album)
| Road to Ruin | ||||||||||
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| Studio album by the Ramones | ||||||||||
| Released | September 21, 1978 | |||||||||
| Recorded | May – June 1978 | |||||||||
| Studio | Media Sound, New York, United States | |||||||||
| Genre | Punk rock | |||||||||
| Length | 31:02 | |||||||||
| Label | Sire | |||||||||
| Producer | ||||||||||
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| Professional ratings | |
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| Review scores | |
| Source | Rating |
| AllMusic |   |
| The Austin Chronicle |  |
| NME | 10/10 |
| Rolling Stone | |
| The Rolling Stone Album Guide | |
| Spin Alternative Record Guide | 9/10 |
| The Village Voice | A |
Road to Ruin is the fourth studio album by American punk rock band the Ramones, released on September 21, 1978, through Sire Records. It was the first Ramones album to feature new drummer Marky Ramone, who replaced founding member Tommy Ramone. Tommy left due to lack of album sales and stress while touring; however, he stayed with the band to produce the album with Ed Stasium. The artwork's concept was designed by Ramones fan Gus MacDonald, and later modified by John Holmstrom to include Marky instead of Tommy.
The songs on Road to Ruin were considered by both fans and critics as an attempt to get the band more airplay. The album incorporated musical elements which were unheard of in punk rock, such as guitar solos and ballads. The difference in style caused for mixed reviews by critics, with many pointing out that the band was trying to sell more records through a change in form. This attempt by the band failed, as Road to Ruin debuted at 103 on the Billboard 200, nearly 50 places behind its predecessor Rocket to Russia.
After the band's previous album Rocket to Russia saw poor album sales, drummer Tommy Ramone left his performing position to focus primarily on producing for the band. After Tommy suggested they search for a new drummer, they began looking in New York City based clubs. While at CBGB, Ramones bassist Dee Dee Ramone approached Marc Bell (Marky Ramone)—who had previously been the drummer in Richard Hell and the Voidoids—asking him if he was interested in joining the Ramones. A month after this confrontation, Bell was invited by Danny Fields and Monte Melnick to audition for the band. Around twenty others auditioned to be drummer, with Tommy overseeing the final choice. Bell played "I Don't Care" and "Sheena Is a Punk Rocker" and each member agreed to allow him into the band.
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