Less Than Jake

American Idle [EP] (2015)

MikeMoak

Less than Jake's American Idle EP has sharp production and catchy hooks and serves as another solid release in the ever growing LTJ catalogue. The first song "American Idle" Is a mid tempo ska punk instant classic. It's built on nostalgic lyrics and great melodies. The very first line "we were the kids from the cul-de-sacs that got out somehow without looking back" just grabs me right away, reminding me of my youth when I bought Losing streak in Hampton Beach on a summer vacation and played it over and over again while skateboarding with my buds or covering "Johnny quest" in bedroom punk bands in our parents suburban homes. The way Chris and Roger harmonize and trade off vocals has always impressed me, and they really project on this song. B side "late night petroleum" is a slower tempo ska song with the same LTJ formula, tight musicianship, and great song writing. It showcases the band's various styles while staying true to their core identity. Overall it's a fun, catchy, solid EP!