Less Than Jake // Uncharted // EP Review

When Less Than Jake dropped Hello Rockville I was in college and became part of the soundtrack to my misspent youth. Since then I have always had Less Than Jake in my music library as something different from a lot of the rest of my albums and a refreshing change.

More than 30 years into their career 8 full length albums, the Ska Rockers have been creating some of the most brilliant and consistent music of its kind. The energy that flows through the music is like so few others and are the true party starters and soundtrack to amazing memories.

There was never any doubt that the successful formula that have served the band so well would continue i to this 7 track EP and just pressing play shows this to be true.

Opening with ‘Broken Words’ the group made up by LTJ—frontman/guitarist Chris DeMakes, bassist/vocalist Roger Lima, trombonist Buddy Schaub, saxophonist Peter “JR” Wasilewski, and drummer Matt Yonker bring that vibe and feel that had h=got this far, combining the Ska with Rock and a little Punk – this is just a lot of fun from the start.

As the tracks progress, the party continues and the volume gets a little louder until suddenly you realise you need a louder system!

The EP is the culmination of previously released tracks, we reach the most recently unleased ‘Sunny Side.’ Dubbed as a reminder to actively make an effort to live your life and be honest as you sing along you will feel the warmth of the sun on your face even in the shittest weather that the UK as to offer.

To be honest as you reach the end of the EP, if you are anything like me you will have already have the repeat button to ensure that you don’t miss a single second of this uplifting, upbeat and mood lifting offering.

There is no denying the importance of this band in my life and of many others, immediately bringing back memories of parties, good times and no doubt some mischief – and Uncharted will be the trigger for so many for so many people.

No one does what Less Than Jake does, many have tried but there is only one – that is why this long after their inception they are still here, Ska-Rocking their way across the soundscape.

Uncharted will be released on 15^th November 2024 via Pure Noise Records.

Review: Ed Ford