EP Review: Less than Jake – Uncharted (Pure Noise Records)
Ska-punk legends Less Than Jake will release their brand-new EP, ‘Uncharted’ on November 15th, 2024, via Pure Noise Records.
A band that should need no introduction, Less Than Jake are icons, not just in the ska-punk world, but the music world in general. Like them or loathe them, you will know them and will have undoubtedly bopped to a track or two of theirs at some time or another.
Chances are, it might even be a track from this EP, which is the perfect example of a release that is made up of mostly singles. Each befitting of their stature as a stand-alone banger but fitting together nicely on a release that gives the listener even more bang for their buck. Less Than Jake continue to move with the times, but also have the perfect balance between all the different eras that have come and gone within the band.
Beginning with Broken Words, the lovable ska is front and centre as the group hit an immediate catchy high. Delivering a punchy and energetic slice of honesty. Then there is the punk rocker that is Walking Pipebomb and the excellent vocal back and forth in the verses here. Before Not My Problem showcases some fun guitar groove, clever use of a trumpet as an exclamation point, and a chorus that will make the listener bounce up and down on the spot.
The first half of the EP assuredly delivers Less Than Jake gold, but then along comes Brand New Day and Sunny Side to showcase just how strong this EP is. Both are stupidly catchy, but the former is such a Less Than Jake traditional anthem that every fan will feel right at home and the latter is a bright example of how their sound has developed over the years while never losing sight of their ska roots.
Finally, it’s Dead Days (Over and Over) and Shake Loose the Truth and guess what? Two more Less Than Jake bangers that make you want to move, sing, and generally be happy. Such is the lovable nature of this band and the enjoyability of their music. It’s fabulous to find them so strong this far into their careers and with this many releases under their belts.
Less Than Jake – Uncharted Track Listing:
1. Broken Words
2. Walking Pipebomb
3. Not My Problem
4. Brand New Day
5. Sunny Side
6. Dead Days (Over and Over)
7. Shake Loose the Truth
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Less than Jake - Uncharted (Pure Noise Records)
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The Final Score - 8/10
8/10