I chatted with JR from Less Than Jake about the struggles of touring and their experience on the Vans Warped Tour
Q: Do you prefer EP’s or full albums?
For us, I prefer full length. An album is supposed to be a cohesive thought for that time period. EP’s are meant to be experimental, where you can try things out and do different things.
Q: Is there a story behind the band name?
Vinny’s parents used to have a bull dog named Jake. Everything in the house was less than Jake. He ran that house. His parents would bring the dog home steaks, and Vinny had fucking Ramen Noodles for dinner ::laughs::
Q: What are some pros and cons of touring?
It’s not for everybody. It’s..kind of hard. They don’t tell you the downsides. Even though you’re with people, it can be lonely. You can’t eat all the time on time..you’re enslaved to your vehicle. You follow the day sheet and you can get through it. The only consistency is inconsistency.
But if you do it and you love it, there’s no better job in the world.
Q: What is your favorite part of performing live?
The show. It’s the best part of the day for me.
Q: How have you changed since you first started?
Personally, I feel I’m the same person. But as a band, there’s no more bullshit. “Garbage in, Garbage out.”
Q: What advice would you have for upcoming bands?
Quit, be a DJ. ::laughs:: Don’t expect anything in the first five years. After five years, If you’ve achieved something , take a step back and look at what can get you through the next five. There’s really no science to it.
Try not to let other bands success get to you. Don’t try mirror their success either. If you want a Koi pond, build a fucking Koi pond.
Q: What has your experience been like on the Vans Warped Tour?
Warped Tour is a GREAT tour. It’s an opportunity to tour with bands we wouldn’t normally tour with. Love getting to meet younger bands just coming up in the industry. It’s grueling but it’s slightly better than spending your summer in Europe ::laughs::
Less Than Jake is on the Vans Warped Tour until August 13th!
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