Apocalypso (Wiping the Smile Off Santa's Face) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids "Apocalypso (Wiping the Smile Off Santa's Face)"
Single by Mental As Anything
B-side	"Wouldn't Try to Explain"
Released	November 1984
Genre	Rock
Length	3:30 6:55 (Extended version)
Label	Regular Records, CBS Records, WEA Records
Songwriter(s)	Martin Plaza, Reg Mombassa
Producer(s)	Mark Opitz
Mental As Anything singles chronology
"Working for the Man" (1983) "Apocalypso (Wiping the Smile Off Santa's Face)" (1984) "You're So Strong" (1985)

"Apocalypso (Wiping the Smile Off Santa's Face)" is a fun and unique Christmas song by the Australian band Mental As Anything. It was released in November 1984 and became quite popular, reaching number 37 on the Australian music charts. This song offers a different take on the usual festive tunes!

About the Song

This song is a special Christmas tune from the Australian band Mental As Anything. It came out in November 1984, just in time for the holiday season. The song quickly became a hit in Australia, showing up on the music charts.

Different Versions

When "Apocalypso" was first released, it came out as a single record. This single usually had two songs:

• "Apocalypso (Wiping the Smile Off Santa's Face)"
• Another song called "Wouldn't Try to Explain"

There was also a longer, "extended mix" of "Apocalypso." This longer version was released on a bigger 12-inch record, which was often used by DJs.

Who Played What?

The talented members of Mental As Anything who played on this song were:

• Martin Plaza – He sang the main vocals and played guitar.
• Wayne de Lisle – He played the drums.
• Reg Mombassa – He played guitar and also sang some vocals.
• Greedy Smith – He sang lead vocals, played keyboards, and also played the harmonica.
• Peter O'Doherty – He played the bass guitar and sang some vocals.

Chart Success

The song "Apocalypso (Wiping the Smile Off Santa's Face)" was popular in Australia. It reached a good spot on the music charts, which shows how many people were listening to it.