The Queers’ Grow Up is back with a 2025 remaster, and while it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it does remind us why this album holds a special place in punk rock history. Originally released as the band’s first full-length album, Grow Up captures The Queers at their rawest, blending the fast, scrappy energy of punk with glimmers of pop sensibility that would later define their sound.
Asian Man Records continues its streak of reissuing The Queers’ catalog, and this remaster brings a fresh coat of polish to an already standout album. While the sound quality isn’t on par with some of their other reissues, it’s still a step up from the original, and longtime fans will appreciate the effort to bring this punk rock staple back into the spotlight.
A Grittier Side of The Queers
Compared to later albums like Don’t Back Down and Munki Brain, Grow Up leans heavily into its punk roots. Tracks like “Rambo Rat” and “Junk Freak” hit hard with relentless energy, perfect for anyone craving that classic punk grit. But it’s the softer, slower tracks that truly elevate this album. Songs like “Burger King Queen,” “I Met Her at the Rat,” and “I’ll Be True to You” shine with melodic charm, showcasing the band’s knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with catchy hooks.
These softer moments are what keep Grow Up from feeling one-dimensional. They add depth and balance, making the album an enjoyable ride from start to finish. In fact, some of the most poppy tracks here rank among the best in The Queers’ entire discography.
The 2025 Remaster: The Good and the Not-So-Good
The remaster breathes new life into the album, offering improved sound quality that outshines the original release. However, it doesn’t quite hit the high standards set by other Queers reissues. The production feels a bit uneven at times, though it’s still very listenable and a worthwhile upgrade for fans of the band.
Where the reissue stumbles is in its bonus tracks. The additional material includes a couple of demos and a handful of other songs that don’t quite hit the mark. While it’s always nice to have extras, these bonus tracks feel like filler and don’t add much value to the reissue. Many listeners may find themselves skipping them altogether.
Should You Grab This Album?
If you’re already a Queers fan, Grow Up is an essential piece of the band’s history and a must-have for your collection. However, if you’re new to The Queers, this isn’t the best place to start. Albums like Love Songs for the Retarded or Don’t Back Down offer a more polished introduction to the band’s unique blend of punk and pop.
For those looking to pick up this reissue, skip Amazon and head straight to Asian Man Records’ website—you’ll save a few bucks and support a label that continues to champion classic punk.
Final Thoughts
The Grow Up 2025 remaster is a solid revisit of a raw, energetic punk album that helped define The Queers’ early sound. While the bonus tracks are underwhelming and the production isn’t perfect, the remaster still does justice to this cult classic. If you love gritty punk rock with a poppy edge, Grow Up remains a standout in The Queers’ catalog—and this remaster is well worth a spin.
