Me First and the Gimme Gimmes: Punk’s wildest cover band returns to the UK in December 2024 for a handful of shows
This December, the ultimate punk supergroup, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, will storm the UK for six nights of chaotic, high-energy shows that promise to deliver all the irreverence, humour, and pure musical fun that has made them legends in the punk world. With a show that combines the raw energy of punk with the guilty pleasure of singalong classics, this is one band you do not want to miss!
Formed in 1995, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes is more than just a band—they’re a collective of punk rock royalty. Brought together by their love for music (and a fair bit of mischief), the group has consisted of members from some of punk’s biggest names: Fat Mike from NOFX on bass, Joey Cape of Lagwagon on guitar, Chris Shiflett of Foo Fighters and No Use for a Name fame on lead guitar, Spike Slawson from Swingin' Utters as the charismatic lead vocalist, and Dave Raun, also from Lagwagon, on drums. The lineup alone is enough to make any punk enthusiast swoon, with each member bringing their unique flavor to the band’s eclectic and playful sound.
The current band lineup looks like this;
Spike Slawson
Joey Cape
CJ Ramone
Jake Kiley
John Reis
Andrew Pinching
While most bands focus on creating original music, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes have built their reputation by reimagining the classics. Their specialty? Taking universally loved songs from across genres—rock, pop, R&B, even show tunes—and giving them a punk rock overhaul. Imagine hearing Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” or Elton John’s “Rocket Man” infused with the aggressive energy and frantic tempo of punk. The result is a fresh, infectious sound that’s as nostalgic as it is exhilarating.
But what really sets them apart is the mix of skill and humor. The band is known for being tongue-in-cheek, and they don’t shy away from poking fun at both the music they cover and the punk rock culture that reveres them. In short, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes aren’t afraid to have a good time, and they make sure their audiences don’t either.
Their back catalog is extensive, spanning numerous albums each with its own theme, from show tunes to country hits to 1960s classics. Here are a few standout tracks that showcase the best of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes:
“Jolene” – This cover of Dolly Parton’s hit maintains all the heartbreak of the original but injects it with breakneck speed and guitar riffs that would make Dolly proud.
“I Believe I Can Fly” – R. Kelly’s hit might have been an unexpected choice, but in the hands of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, it’s transformed into an upbeat, thrashing anthem of ironic optimism.
“Rocket Man” – Elton John’s reflective ballad becomes a high-octane thrill ride that makes it feel like punk was the song’s natural home all along.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – From The Wizard of Oz, this song keeps the original’s dreamy quality but speeds it up and throws in a heavy dose of distortion, adding a punk twist to a cinematic classic.
“Country Roads” – A singalong staple, this cover retains the heartfelt nature of John Denver’s original while adding a wild tempo and heavy guitars, making it a live favourite.
Their style has evolved over the years, but the formula remains the same: they respect the songs they cover just enough to keep them recognizable while unapologetically adding their signature edge.
If you’re ready for an unforgettable night of punked-up classics, you’re in luck—Me First and the Gimme Gimmes are set to play six UK shows this December:
December 2 - Glasgow, O2 Academy
December 3 - Manchester, Albert Hall
December 5 - Birmingham, O2 Institute
December 6 - Bristol, O2 Academy
December 8 - London, O2 Forum Kentish Town
December 9 - Brighton, Chalk
Their UK tour promises to be packed with punk rock fans old and new, all united by the band’s ability to make timeless songs feel fresh and raw. Known for their lively stage antics, costume changes, and endless crowd engagement, these shows will be a treat for anyone who loves music with a twist.
With roots in some of punk’s most influential bands, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes embody the very spirit of punk rock: irreverent, rebellious, and full of heart. Their shows are more than just concerts; they’re celebrations of music that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or musical taste. Whether you're a lifelong punk rocker, a fan of the original tracks they cover, or simply looking for a night out filled with energetic music, their December tour promises an unforgettable experience.
So, if you’re ready to sing, shout, and maybe even laugh a little, grab your tickets for Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, because when punk’s greatest cover band comes to town, you better believe it’ll be a show to remember.
To get your hands on tickets for the UK shows as well as their dates in Australia and Japan, click HERE