Less Than Jake Live at Hellfest: Ska-Punk Legends Rock the War Zone Stage!. Gig review

July 15, 2023 rocknews

The sun was shining, the crowd was pumped, and Less Than Jake were about to take the War zone stage at Hellfest for the first time ever. The Florida ska-punk legends are currently touring Europe which I’m sad to say I missed them play in the UK at the Slam-dunk Festival due to a trip to California.

The band opened with “Gainesville Rock City,” and the crowd immediately went wild. Lead singer and guitarist Chris DeMakes commanded the stage with his energetic presence, while bassist Roger Lima and drummer Vinnie Fiorello provided the driving force behind the band’s sound.

Less Than Jake played a mix of old and new material, with crowd favourites like “The Science of Selling Yourself Short,” “Automatic,” and “Johnny Quest Thinks We’re All Sell-outs” getting the biggest reactions. Chris announced it is the bands best show in France as they went on to play “Plastic Cup Politics”.

Chris engaged with the crowd and asked if anyone had seen Less thank Jake before. He then went on to ask if anyone would see them in the future. The crowd jokingly said no to which Chris remarked on the audience’s brutal honesty.

Throughout the set, Less Than Jake showed why they are one of the most beloved ska-punk bands in the world. They were tight, energetic, and fun, and they clearly loved being on stage. The crowd was equally enthusiastic, singing along, dancing and forming a massive circle in front of the stage.

By the end of the set, the crowd was exhausted but satisfied. Less Than Jake had put on a hell of a show, and everyone had a great time. If you’re a fan of ska-punk, or just good music in general, then you need to see Less Than Jake live. They’re a true force of nature.

You can watch the full set here.