Less Than Jake is in town tonight (Thursday), playing Clutch Cargo in Pontiac. We grabbed the chance to have a brief chat with singer Chris Demakes about what he loves about our fair region.
Are you happy with new album See The Light?
We’re real happy with it. I don’t really see that there’s an evolution from the last record as much as it’s a true-to-form record. We wanted to make a straight up Less Than Jake record, and I think it’s the best-sounding record we’ve made.
What has the reaction been like so far?
The reaction’s been great for the most part. You’re always going to have a couple of detractors, but for the most part it’s been really positive.
Are you enjoying the tour?
It’s nice to be out on the road. We’ve known Anti-Flag forever, Masked Intruder for a little over a year now. It’s nice to be able to go out with your friends.
Do you have any memories of playing Detroit?
Detroit’s been one of the strongholds for Less Than Jake over the years. That whole Midwest area. Detroit’s a rock ’n’ roll town and it’s been really great to us. We got to play Pine Knob, and Cobo Hall before they ripped that down. We have done numerous Warped Tours, and we’re going to be the last show playing at Clutch Cargos. They’re turning it back into a church. I don’t know if that’s sacrilege on our part or their part. I think attendance could be through the roof that night, with people coming out to say goodbye to the place even if they don’t like the bands. It could work in our favor.
What are you fave Detroit bands?
We’re great friends with Suicide Machines – they’re a great Detroit band. The Electric 6 – we first heard of those guys when we were in England. They were playing that song “Gay Bar” and I thought they were English. When I found out they’re from Detroit, it was pretty funny.
What’s next for you guys?
We’re going to take December off for the holidays, reconvene in January, and next year we’ll tour our asses off. We’re going to Australia for the Soundwave Festival.
