Mean Jeans

12.04.19

Several months ago, Mean Jeans released their latest full-length on Fat Wreck Chords, entitled Gigantic Sike. We recently caught up with singer/guitarist Billy Jeans and talked about the inspiration behind the album’s name, the quick manner in which the record was made and what some of its songs are about. Gigantic Sike features a stripped-down approach to the Ramones-influenced punk that fans have come to know, but there’s now a greater sense of honesty found in the lyrics. To be fair, there’s still plenty of songs about partying, but it also addresses the notion of what to do when the partying days are over. Additionally, we discussed how all three band members currently live in different states, their show this fall at Cobra Lounge, future plans and more.

Mean Jeans – Nite Vision

03.22.16

Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 3/18/16

Last week, Mean Jeans marked their Fat Wreck Chords debut with the release of the Nite Vision seven-inch. The record serves as a preview for their upcoming album Tight New Dimension, which the label will put out in April. Containing three songs in total, (one that appears on the full-length and two that are exclusive) Nite Vision finds the Portland trio sharpening their patented take on Ramones-inspired garage rock. Things get underway with the title track, an ominous entry that features surf rock undertones and a chorus that stomps along with authority. It also contains a gloomy yet melodic guitar lead that helps to solidify the mood of this confident anthem. Up next is “Now I Wanna Be Yr Dogg,” which channels Teenage Bottlerocket but adds extra humor and a noticeably faster tempo. It’s infectiously catchy and does a nice job of showcasing the vocal abilities of singer/guitarist Billy Jeans. The record concludes with “69 Tears,” clocking-in at less than a minute and a half, though still managing to include buzzsaw guitars, skillful drumming and distinctive call and response backing vocals. If these songs are any indication of what’s to come on Mean Jeans’ forthcoming album, then it sounds as though the band has taken their craft to that next level. Check out the song “Nite Vision” below for a sample of what’s in store.

[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Night_Vision.mp3|titles= “Nite Vision”]