Review / 200 Words Or Less
Less Than Jake
Losing Streak (Reissue)

It’s been close to fifteen years since Less Than Jake first released Losing Streak and now holding the rights, they’re re-releasing it with redesigned artwork and a live version of the album (a DVD in the physical release and mp3 format in the digital).

Whilst Losing Streak isn’t the best of their albums, that accolade really belongs to Hello Rockview, it is definitely one of the strongest. Full of short and witty ska-punk tracks, it’s undeniably great record. Highlight tracks like “Automatic” and “Ask the Magic 8 Ball” still hold up on this revisit and if nothing else, this re-release is a great reason to dig the album out and re-listen to it.

At least for the older fans, the real reason to get this release is the additional live version of the album. Recorded in their native Florida, it’s an energetic and enjoyable performance and the recording is excellent and between some songs there is an entertaining amount of (occasionally informative) banter. It is fair to say that if you’re a fan of live albums and LTJ then this will be a valued asset.

However, for the more casual fan, given that the band are still very active in touring, it may be preferable to go see them perform instead; there are strong odds on them playing all the best tracks from this album.

Whilst this re-release is a welcome dose of nostalgia and a chance to re-visit one of the great ska-punk bands before their decline in later years, if you’ve already got the album, it may not have enough additional content to get you to re-purchase it.