Sleep It Off Records – Release Date: 6/20/11

Less Than Jake has returned with Greetings from…, marking their first new material since 2008’s GNV FLA. This EP displays more confidence and focus than the previously mentioned album, and it’s arguably the band’s best effort since their 2003 full-length, Anthem. Recorded by bassist Roger Lima at his own studio, The Moathouse, and mixed and mastered by Descendents/ALL guitarist Stephen Egerton, Greetings from… not only sounds great, it also captures the essence and excitement of Less Than Jake’s celebrated live performances. The first track, “Can’t Yell Any Louder”, is upbeat, hyper-melodic and packed with horns. It’s easily one of the catchiest songs that LTJ has written in recent years, not to mention one of the most ska-influenced. “Goodbye, Mr. Personality” is next and it’s more laidback and mid-tempo, yet retains a strong sense of ska flavor and sounds similar to the band’s Losing Streak album. “Harvey Wallbanger” features plenty of their patented “whoa-oh” vocals and talks of America’s continued economic recession, and it’s followed by an introspective song about wanting to make a difference called “Oldest Trick in the Book”. The final entry, “Life Out Loud”, is fast-paced, straight-ahead punk rock and reminiscent of LTJ favorites like “National Anthem” and “Scott Farcas Takes It on the Chin”. It’s as passionate as it is catchy, and clearly the EP’s standout track. Greetings from… showcases a reenergized Less Than Jake. If this EP serves as a taste of what’s to come, fans should eagerly anticipate the release of their next album.