On the Cover cover

On the Cover

MxPx · 1995

20 min · 8 tracks · punk rock

A high-energy collection of punk rock covers infused with youthful exuberance and catchy melodies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Take On Me — This cover transforms the iconic synth-pop hit into a punchy punk anthem, showcasing MxPx's knack for marrying energetic instrumentation with familiar hooks.
  • →
    Summer of 69 Start here — Reimagining Bryan Adams' classic, this version captures the carefree spirit of youth while injecting a raw punk edge that resonates with their fanbase.
  • →
    Drum Machine Joy — An original track that stands out for its fun lyrics about the joy of music production, reflecting MxPx's playful side while maintaining their punk roots.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

MxPx delivers energetic punk covers that showcase their style but lack significant originality.

What we noticed

  • The EP features a consistent mid-tempo pace across its eight tracks, with only slight variations in energy levels.
  • The last three tracks shift slightly in tone, introducing more melodic elements compared to the earlier, more aggressive selections.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short bursts of energetic fun
  • for upbeat gatherings
  • nostalgic sing-alongs with friends
  • quick, lively listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of deep introspection
  • prefer long, immersive experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Helped solidify MxPx's identity and gain mainstream traction in punk rock.
Career context
Released in 1995, On the Cover was MxPx's third album, following their breakout success with Life in General. At this point, the band was solidifying their identity within the punk rock scene, showcasing their ability to reinterpret classic tracks with a fresh perspective.
Stylistic neighbors
Lagwagon· No Use for a Name· Pennywise

Tracklist

  • 1 Summer of 69 Start here 2:21
  • 2 Oh Boy 2:03
  • 3 Drum Machine Joy 3:35
  • 4 You Found Me 2:31
  • 5 Take On Me 3:36
  • 6 Marie, Marie 1:50
  • 7 You Put This Love in My Heart 1:46
  • 8 No Brain 2:36

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata